At $5,959/yr net price, Northeast State Community College graduates earn $34,553/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $553/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $5,959 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $23,836 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $34,553/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$553/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 43.1 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 32.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $6,827 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $5,462/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,837/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $7,478/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $8,336/yr |
| $110,001+ | $2,112/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Skills and Developmental/Remedial Education. | Certificate | $64,706 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $51,145 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $46,673 | |
| Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $38,018 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Certificate | $36,848 | |
| Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other. | Associate | $33,077 | |
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $32,925 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Associate | $25,967 | |
| Business Operations Support and Assistant Services. | Associate | $24,808 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $21,052 |
The Risk Factor
32.2% of students at Northeast State 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 State Community College delivers strong financial returns for students who pick the right programs and finish their degrees. With a net price under $6,000 and median debt below $7,000, the financial risk stays manageable even with the school's concerning 32% graduation rate.
The nursing program stands out as your best bet financially, with graduates earning over $51,000 annually. Allied health programs also perform well at around $47,000, while electrical engineering technology graduates earn $38,000. These technical and healthcare programs align well with East Tennessee's job market, where healthcare systems and manufacturing companies actively recruit community college graduates.
Basic skills programs show inflated earnings data that likely reflects students who transferred rather than entered the workforce directly. Liberal arts and general studies programs at Northeast State typically lead to much lower earnings, making them poor standalone investments unless you plan to transfer to a four-year school.
Your biggest financial risk here is not graduating. With only one in three students completing their programs, Northeast State requires strong self-direction and support systems. The low graduation rate suggests many students struggle with the transition to college or face competing work and family obligations.
This school works best financially if you live locally, can attend full-time, and target healthcare or technical fields. The low sticker price makes it attractive for career changers or those testing college readiness without major financial exposure. However, students seeking broader career options or those uncertain about their direction might find better ROI at four-year schools with higher graduation rates and more complete support services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Northeast State Community College worth the money?
Northeast State offers decent value with low tuition costs at $5,959 per year and manageable debt averaging $6,827. However, graduates earn only $34,553 ten years after enrollment, which is below average for college graduates.
What are the best paying programs at Northeast State Community College?
Nursing programs lead with graduates earning around $51,145, followed by allied health fields at $46,673. Electrical engineering technology graduates earn $38,018, while most other programs result in lower salaries.
How much debt will I have after Northeast State Community College?
Students typically graduate with $6,827 in debt, which is relatively low compared to four-year schools. The affordable tuition and community college structure help keep borrowing minimal.
What is the graduation rate at Northeast State Community College?
Only 32% of students graduate, which is concerning for return on investment. The low completion rate means many students leave without credentials while still carrying some debt.