At $1,612/yr net price, Northeast Alabama Community College graduates earn $34,913/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $913/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $1,612 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $6,448 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $34,913/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$913/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 7.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 31.8% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $6,100 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $260/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $1,258/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $3,441/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $8,201/yr |
| $110,001+ | $9,684/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies. | Associate | $47,260 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $45,980 | |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $36,848 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $20,960 | $7,662 |
| Business Operations Support and Assistant Services. | Associate | $18,309 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $16,478 |
The Risk Factor
31.8% of students at Northeast Alabama Community 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
Northeast Alabama Community College offers an strongly affordable education with strong returns in specific technical fields, but your major choice determines whether you'll see positive financial outcomes. At under $1,700 per year in net costs, this school minimizes your financial risk while providing access to high-demand regional programs.
Heavy equipment maintenance and nursing programs deliver the strongest returns, with graduates earning $45,000 to $47,000 annually. These technical tracks align with Northeast Alabama's industrial job market and healthcare needs, justifying the low debt loads typical at this school. Practical nursing also provides solid middle-class earnings at $36,800 yearly.
Avoid the liberal arts and business support programs, which lead to earnings below $21,000 annually. These graduates often carry higher debt relative to their income potential, creating years of financial struggle despite the school's low sticker price.
The 32% graduation rate signals completion challenges you'll need to handle. Many students struggle to finish their programs, which eliminates any potential return on investment. If you lack strong study habits or clear career direction, consider whether you're prepared for the self-discipline required.
This school works best if you're targeting specific technical careers with clear local job demand. The low cost structure means you can afford to focus on your studies without working excessive hours. However, if you're undecided about your major or considering transfer to a four-year school, the weak liberal arts outcomes suggest you should start elsewhere.
With only 38% of students receiving aid, most families can afford the direct costs. Focus on completing your program quickly in a high-earning field rather than searching for additional scholarships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Northeast Alabama Community College worth the cost?
With a net price of just $1,612 per year and median debt of $6,100, Northeast Alabama Community College offers strong value for students who complete their programs. However, the 32% graduation rate means many students don't finish, which hurts the return on investment.
What are the best paying programs at Northeast Alabama Community College?
Heavy equipment maintenance and nursing programs at Northeast Alabama Community College lead to the highest earnings, with graduates making $45,000-47,000 annually. Liberal arts and business support programs pay significantly less at around $18,000-21,000 per year.
How much debt do Northeast Alabama Community College graduates have?
Northeast Alabama Community College graduates have a median debt of $6,100, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. The low annual cost of $1,612 helps keep borrowing minimal for most students.
What is the job market like for Northeast Alabama Community College graduates?
Northeast Alabama Community College graduates earn a median of $34,913 ten years after starting school. This is reasonable for a community college, especially considering the low cost, but career prospects vary widely by program choice.