At $8,416/yr net price, Northern Maine Community College graduates earn $43,348/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $9,348/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,416 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $33,664 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $43,348/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$9,348/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 33.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $10,825 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $6,369/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,171/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $10,008/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $15,581/yr |
| $110,001+ | $15,581/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $54,661 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $53,108 | $12,000 |
| Electrical and Power Transmission Installers. | Associate | $38,289 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $31,495 | $10,000 |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Associate | $30,771 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $26,585 | |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Associate | $25,967 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $21,964 |
The Risk Factor
33.3% of students at Northern Maine 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 Maine Community College delivers strong returns for students who choose the right programs, but your success depends heavily on picking a high-paying field. The school's low net price of $8,416 per year makes it one of the most affordable options in Maine, but the 33% graduation rate means many students never see any return on their investment.
Precision metalworking and nursing programs generate solid earnings that justify the investment. Nursing graduates earn $53,108 annually with typical debt of just $12,000, creating a manageable debt-to-income ratio. Precision metalworking pays even better at $54,661 per year, reflecting strong demand for skilled trades in northern Maine's manufacturing sector.
Vehicle maintenance and accounting programs show weaker returns. Auto tech graduates earn $31,495 with $10,000 in debt, while accounting majors make just $30,771. These fields offer limited earning potential relative to the regional job market.
Your biggest financial risk is not finishing your program. With only one in three students graduating, you face real odds of accumulating debt without earning a credential. The low graduation rate reflects both the school's open admissions policy and the challenges many students face balancing work and school in rural Maine.
This school works best for you if you need an affordable path into healthcare or skilled trades and can commit fully to completing your program. Look elsewhere if you want broader career options or higher earning potential, as most programs here lead to modest middle-class incomes. The school offers limited merit aid, so your main cost advantage comes from the inherently low tuition rather than scholarships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Northern Maine Community College worth the cost?
Northern Maine Community College offers decent value with a low net price of $8,416 annually and modest debt levels around $10,825. However, the 33% graduation rate is concerning, and average earnings of $43,348 after 10 years are below national averages for college graduates.
What are the best paying programs at Northern Maine Community College?
Precision Metal Working leads with $54,661 in median earnings, followed by Nursing at $53,108. These technical programs significantly outperform the school average and justify the investment, while programs like Accounting ($30,771) offer weaker returns.
How much debt do Northern Maine Community College graduates typically have?
Graduates typically carry $10,825 in debt, which is manageable compared to four-year institutions. The low debt combined with strong earnings in nursing and metal working makes those programs financially viable.
What is the graduation rate at Northern Maine Community College?
Only 33% of students graduate, meaning two-thirds don't complete their programs. This high dropout rate significantly reduces the school's value proposition and increases the risk of taking on debt without earning a credential.