At $8,351/yr net price, North Seattle College graduates earn $47,728/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $13,728/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,351 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $33,404 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $47,728/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$13,728/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.4 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 32.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $15,458 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $7,776/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,002/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,872/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $14,819/yr |
| $110,001+ | $16,377/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 | $67,995 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Certificate | $33,138 |
The Risk Factor
32.4% of students at North Seattle College graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
North Seattle College delivers mixed financial returns, with strong outcomes in nursing but concerning results across most other programs. The nursing program stands out as a clear winner, generating median earnings of $67,995 that justify the investment for most students.
Your biggest risk here is the 32% graduation rate. Two-thirds of students leave without completing their programs, making this a high-stakes bet. If you don't finish, you face debt without the degree needed to access better-paying jobs.
The nursing program offers your best path to financial success, with graduates earning significantly above the overall median. Allied health programs generate more modest returns at $33,138, but still provide reasonable value given the low net price. Other programs appear to underperform, leaving graduates with limited earning potential relative to even this affordable education.
North Seattle College works best if you're committed to nursing or can confidently complete your program despite the low graduation rate. The $8,351 annual cost keeps debt manageable, and the median debt load of $15,458 remains reasonable for nursing graduates who can service it comfortably.
This school makes financial sense for focused, motivated students pursuing high-demand healthcare careers. If you're undecided about your major or struggling academically, the graduation rate suggests you should consider other options. The low percentage receiving aid indicates limited financial support beyond the already affordable sticker price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is North Seattle College worth the cost compared to other schools?
North Seattle College offers decent value with a low net price of $8,351 per year and manageable debt of $15,458. However, the 32% graduation rate means many students don't finish, which hurts the return on investment.
What are the highest paying programs at North Seattle College?
Nursing programs at North Seattle College lead to the best earnings, with registered nursing graduates earning around $68,000 annually. Other health programs pay significantly less at about $33,000, so program choice matters for ROI.
How much debt do North Seattle College graduates typically have?
North Seattle College graduates who borrow have median debt of $15,458, which is relatively low compared to four-year schools. The affordable tuition helps keep borrowing manageable for most students.
Do North Seattle College graduates earn enough to justify the cost?
With average earnings of $47,728 ten years after enrollment, North Seattle College graduates earn modestly above the national median. The low cost helps with ROI, but success depends heavily on completing a degree and choosing the right program.