At $17,460/yr net price, North Central Kansas Technical College graduates earn $46,928/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $12,928/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $17,460 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $69,840 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $46,928/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$12,928/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 5.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 75.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $10,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $15,056/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $15,166/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $17,335/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $20,007/yr |
| $110,001+ | $21,019/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $46,478 | |
| Electrical and Power Transmission Installers. | Associate | $39,009 | |
| Agricultural Mechanization. | Associate | $37,928 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $37,568 | |
| Ground Transportation. | Certificate | $36,221 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $35,635 | |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $34,704 | |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Certificate | $32,711 | |
| Carpenters. | Certificate | $30,949 | |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. | Associate | $24,421 |
The Risk Factor
75.5% of students at North Central Kansas Technical College graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 25% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
North Central Kansas Technical College delivers solid returns for a rural technical school, with graduates earning a median $46,928 annually while carrying just $10,000 in debt. The low debt load makes this program financially accessible even if your earnings plateau in the mid-$40,000s.
Registered Nursing stands out as the clear winner financially, with graduates earning $46,478 annually. This program justifies the $17,460 yearly cost within rural Kansas's healthcare market. The technical trades cluster around $37,000-$39,000, making them viable choices if you can complete the program without excessive debt.
Your biggest risk is the 75% graduation rate combined with the rural location. If you don't finish, you face limited local job opportunities and wasted tuition costs. The school's remote Beloit location also constrains your job market unless you plan to relocate after graduation.
This school works best for Kansas residents who want technical training without relocating or accumulating heavy debt. The nursing program particularly suits those comfortable working in rural healthcare settings. You should look elsewhere if you need urban job opportunities or higher earning potential above $50,000.
Only 19% of students receive financial aid, suggesting the school attracts students who can pay out of pocket or qualify for limited assistance. Focus on completing your program quickly to minimize total costs and maximize your return on this relatively affordable technical education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is North Central Kansas Technical College worth the money?
North Central Kansas Technical College offers decent value with low debt levels ($10,000 median) and a 76% graduation rate. The nursing program leads to earnings of $46,478 annually, while other technical programs range from $36,000-$39,000.
What are the highest paying programs at North Central Kansas Technical College?
Nursing programs at North Central Kansas Technical College pay best at $46,478 annually, followed by electrical and power transmission work at $39,009. Agricultural and metalworking programs typically start around $37,000-$38,000.
How much debt do North Central Kansas Technical College graduates have?
North Central Kansas Technical College graduates carry a median debt of $10,000, which is low compared to most colleges. With annual net costs of $17,460, students can minimize borrowing through financial aid and shorter program lengths.
Do North Central Kansas Technical College graduates find jobs after graduation?
North Central Kansas Technical College has a 76% graduation rate, and graduates earn an average of $46,928 ten years after enrollment. The technical focus means graduates enter fields with steady demand, particularly in healthcare and skilled trades.