At $10,059/yr net price, Northeast Iowa Community College graduates earn $41,306/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $7,306/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $10,059 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $40,236 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $41,306/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$7,306/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 5.5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 47.7% |
| 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 | $8,886/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $9,480/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $10,462/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $11,428/yr |
| $110,001+ | $13,057/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 | $51,065 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Certificate | $48,901 | $17,750 |
| Agricultural Mechanization. | Certificate | $44,468 | $7,000 |
| Agricultural Mechanization. | Associate | $42,682 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $37,928 | $5,446 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $36,437 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Certificate | $36,077 | $5,500 |
| Computer Programming. | Associate | $35,954 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Associate | $35,060 | |
| Electrical and Power Transmission Installers. | Certificate | $34,704 |
The Risk Factor
47.7% of students at Northeast Iowa Community College 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
Northeast Iowa Community College offers a solid financial return for students who pick the right programs and complete their degrees. The nursing program stands out with graduates earning over $50,000 annually, making it one of the better-paying two-year programs in Iowa despite higher debt loads around $17,750.
Agricultural mechanization graduates also see strong returns at $44,000+ annually with minimal debt, reflecting the school's rural location and regional demand for farm equipment technicians. Precision metal working provides decent earnings at nearly $38,000 with very low debt of $5,446, making it an attractive option for hands-on learners.
The major financial risk is the 47% graduation rate. Nearly half of students who start here never finish, wasting time and money. If you struggle with completing programs or need extensive academic support, this presents a significant financial gamble.
This school works best financially if you're committed to healthcare, agriculture, or skilled trades and can handle the rural campus environment. The low median debt of $12,000 keeps financial risk manageable for completers. However, students seeking broader career options or four-year transfer preparation should look elsewhere, as the limited program variety may not justify the investment.
With only 23% of students receiving aid, you'll likely pay close to the full $10,059 annual cost. The school's small size limits merit scholarship opportunities, so budget for paying most expenses out of pocket or through federal aid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Northeast Iowa Community College worth the money?
Northeast Iowa Community College offers decent value with a net price of $10,059 annually and median debt of only $12,000. However, the 47.7% graduation rate means many students don't finish, and average earnings of $41,306 after 10 years are modest.
What are the highest paying programs at Northeast Iowa Community College?
Nursing programs at Northeast Iowa Community College lead to the best earnings, with graduates earning around $48,901-$51,065. Agricultural mechanization and precision metal working programs also show solid returns at $37,928-$44,468.
How much debt will I have after Northeast Iowa Community College?
Students at Northeast Iowa Community College graduate with a median debt of $12,000, which is relatively low for college programs. The affordable tuition and strong financial aid help keep borrowing manageable.
What is the graduation rate at Northeast Iowa Community College?
Northeast Iowa Community College has a 47.7% graduation rate, meaning more than half of students don't complete their programs. This completion rate is a significant risk factor to consider when evaluating the investment.