At $10,802/yr net price, North Dakota State College of Science graduates earn $50,513/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $16,513/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $10,802 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $43,208 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $50,513/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$16,513/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 49.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $6,222/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,643/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,918/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $12,467/yr |
| $110,001+ | $13,866/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 | $58,673 | $18,773 |
| Agricultural Mechanization. | Associate | $49,102 | $12,500 |
| Environmental Control Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $46,087 | |
| Architectural Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $45,808 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $45,383 | $11,554 |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $43,426 | $11,500 |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $41,565 | $11,123 |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Associate | $40,821 | $16,090 |
| Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $39,489 | $11,000 |
| Agricultural Business and Management. | Associate | $34,704 | $11,000 |
The Risk Factor
49.9% of students at North Dakota State College of Science graduate within 6 years. More than half of students finish, but the dropout rate is a real factor in whether this investment pays off.
Analysis
North Dakota State College of Science delivers solid financial returns for a two-year college, with graduates earning $50,513 annually against just $12,000 in median debt. The low debt load makes this school financially accessible, though the 50% graduation rate means half of students never complete their programs.
Nursing stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning $58,673 annually despite higher debt of $18,773. The program justifies its cost through strong regional healthcare demand. Agricultural mechanization also pays well at $49,102, aligning with North Dakota's farming economy. Environmental control, architectural engineering, and vehicle maintenance programs all deliver earnings above $45,000, providing solid middle-class incomes with minimal debt.
The biggest financial risk is the graduation rate. If you struggle with hands-on technical programs or need extensive academic support, you could join the half who leave without credentials. The school works best for students who know they want specific technical training and can handle the practical coursework.
You should consider this school if you want to enter skilled trades quickly without accumulating significant debt. The combination of low costs and strong regional job placement makes it particularly attractive for North Dakota residents. The nursing program offers the highest returns but requires completing the full curriculum.
Only 17% of students receive financial aid, suggesting most can afford the low sticker price without assistance. Merit scholarships appear limited, but the base cost remains reasonable for most families. This school makes financial sense if you want immediate workforce entry rather than a four-year degree path.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is North Dakota State College of Science worth the cost?
With a net price of $10,802 and median debt of just $12,000, North Dakota State College of Science offers good value for students who graduate. The low cost makes it less risky than most colleges, though the 50% graduation rate means half of students don't finish.
What are the highest paying programs at North Dakota State College of Science?
Nursing programs at North Dakota State College of Science lead to the best earnings, with graduates earning around $58,673 annually. Agricultural mechanization and environmental control technology programs also pay well, with graduates earning $45,000-49,000.
How much debt do North Dakota State College of Science graduates have?
North Dakota State College of Science graduates leave with a median debt of $12,000, which is much lower than the national average. This manageable debt level makes the financial risk relatively low even if career outcomes vary.
What is the job market like for North Dakota State College of Science graduates?
North Dakota State College of Science graduates earn a median of $50,513 ten years after graduation, which is reasonable given the low cost and debt. Technical programs like nursing and agricultural mechanization align well with regional job demand in North Dakota.