At $24,033/yr net price, North Central Institute graduates earn $55,027/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $21,027/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $24,033 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $96,132 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $55,027/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$21,027/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 84.6% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $23,631/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $22,706/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $29,379/yr |
The Risk Factor
84.6% of students at North Central Institute graduate within 6 years. Most students who start here finish their degree.
Analysis
North Central Institute delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your program choice. With a net price of $24,033 annually for a two-year degree, you're looking at roughly $48,000 in total costs before interest, which puts significant pressure on post-graduation earnings to justify the investment.
The school's healthcare programs offer the strongest ROI potential in Clarksville's job market. Medical assistant and dental hygiene tracks align well with regional hospital systems and growing healthcare demand in middle Tennessee. These programs typically lead to starting salaries that can handle the debt load within reasonable timeframes.
Business and general studies programs present weaker financial prospects. The median earnings figure reflects the school's stronger programs, but lower-paying administrative roles common to business graduates struggle to support the debt burden. You'll face extended repayment periods that erode long-term wealth building.
The biggest financial risk lies in the for-profit structure combined with limited financial aid availability. Only 18% of students receive aid, meaning most pay full price through loans. This creates a high-stakes scenario where program completion and immediate job placement become critical for financial survival.
North Central Institute makes financial sense if you're targeting specific healthcare careers and can secure employment quickly after graduation. The 84.6% graduation rate suggests most students complete their programs, but you need realistic earning expectations for your chosen field.
Skip this school if you're considering business programs or lack clear career direction. Community colleges offer similar training at significantly lower costs, and four-year schools provide better long-term earning potential for comparable investment levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is North Central Institute worth the cost?
North Central Institute graduates earn $55,027 after 10 years, which is below average for college graduates. With a net price of $24,033 per year, the return on investment is moderate at best.
Do North Central Institute graduates struggle with student debt?
The relatively high annual cost of $24,033 can lead to significant debt burdens, especially given that graduate earnings of $55,027 are lower than many comparable programs. Students should carefully consider borrowing limits.
What is the graduation rate at North Central Institute?
North Central Institute has an 84.6% graduation rate, which is solid and suggests most students complete their programs. However, completing the degree doesn't guarantee strong earnings outcomes.
Which programs at North Central Institute offer the best return on investment?
Specific program-level earnings data varies, but given the overall graduate earnings of $55,027, students should research individual program outcomes before enrolling. Some technical programs may offer better job prospects than others.