At $3,971/yr net price, Northern Essex Community College graduates earn $42,862/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $8,862/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $3,971 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $15,884 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $42,862/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$8,862/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 19.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $1,405/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $3,060/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $4,619/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $9,455/yr |
| $110,001+ | $11,376/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 | $65,905 | $15,750 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $53,179 | $13,723 |
| Business/Commerce, General. | Associate | $35,416 | $8,505 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $35,060 | $11,000 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Associate | $35,060 | $8,275 |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Certificate | $31,763 | $5,600 |
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | Associate | $31,423 | |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Certificate | $30,228 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Certificate | $30,228 | |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $29,685 | $11,875 |
The Risk Factor
19.0% of students at Northern Essex 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
Northern Essex Community College delivers strong value for healthcare-focused students but struggles in other areas. At under $4,000 annually, the school costs less than most alternatives, making it financially accessible even if graduation rates disappoint.
The nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning $65,905 annually against $15,750 in debt. Allied health programs also perform well at $53,179 in median earnings. These healthcare tracks justify the investment and align with strong regional demand in the greater Boston healthcare market.
Business programs tell a different story. General business, accounting, and management graduates earn around $35,000 annually, which barely exceeds what many entry-level positions offer without a degree. With Massachusetts' high cost of living, these earnings create tight financial margins.
The 19% graduation rate creates significant risk. You face real odds of leaving with debt but no credential. This makes Northern Essex most suitable for students with clear healthcare career goals and strong academic preparation. If you need extensive academic support or lack focus on your major, consider four-year options with better completion rates.
Financial aid reaches only one-third of students, suggesting limited grant opportunities beyond federal programs. The low median debt of $9,000 reflects both affordable tuition and the reality that many students leave before accumulating significant borrowing.
Northern Essex works best for career-focused students targeting nursing or allied health, residents seeking affordable local education, or those using it as a stepping stone to four-year programs. Students uncertain about their direction or seeking broad career preparation should look elsewhere, as the combination of low graduation rates and limited earning potential outside healthcare creates poor odds for financial success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Northern Essex Community College worth the money?
Northern Essex Community College offers good value with a low net price of $3,971 per year and modest debt levels around $9,000. However, the 19% graduation rate means most students don't complete their programs, which significantly reduces the return on investment.
What are the best paying programs at Northern Essex Community College?
Nursing programs at Northern Essex Community College provide the strongest ROI, with graduates earning around $65,905 annually. Allied health programs also pay well at $53,179, while business programs typically lead to lower earnings around $35,000.
How much debt do Northern Essex Community College graduates have?
Northern Essex Community College graduates typically leave with about $9,000 in debt, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. The low cost helps keep debt levels reasonable even for students who need loans.
What is the job market like for Northern Essex Community College graduates?
Northern Essex Community College graduates earn a median of $42,862 ten years after enrollment. Nursing and healthcare graduates see much higher earnings, while business program graduates typically earn below the school average.