At $9,968/yr net price, Olney Central College graduates earn $37,533/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $3,533/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $9,968 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $39,872 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $37,533/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$3,533/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 11.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 62.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $6,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,468/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $10,466/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $12,339/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $10,762/yr |
| $110,001+ | $13,339/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $20,140 | $5,625 |
The Risk Factor
62.1% of students at Olney Central College graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 38% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Olney Central College delivers weak financial returns that make it a risky investment for most students. With median 10-year earnings of just $37,533 and a net price approaching $10,000 annually, you face a challenging payback period even with relatively low debt levels.
The earnings data reveals a troubling pattern across programs. Liberal Arts and Sciences graduates earn only $20,140 ten years after graduation, barely above minimum wage despite accumulating $5,625 in debt. This program, like most at Olney Central, fails to provide the income boost you need to justify the investment.
Your biggest financial risk here is opportunity cost. The two years and $20,000 you spend at Olney Central could generate better returns through direct workforce entry or training at higher-performing community colleges in Illinois. The 62% graduation rate means over one-third of students leave without credentials, making their investment a total loss.
Olney Central works financially only if you can attend with minimal debt and plan to transfer to a four-year school immediately. The low net price and modest debt levels make it viable as a stepping stone, but not as a terminal degree destination.
You should look elsewhere if your goal is workforce preparation or career advancement. The regional job market in southeastern Illinois offers limited opportunities, and the college's programs don't provide competitive skills for higher-paying positions. Consider Illinois community colleges with stronger industry partnerships or direct entry into trade programs with better earning potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Olney Central College worth the cost?
With a net price under $10,000 and median debt of only $6,500, Olney Central College offers affordable education with minimal financial risk. However, graduates earn around $37,500 ten years later, which limits long-term earning potential compared to four-year programs.
What is the return on investment for Olney Central College graduates?
Olney Central College graduates typically earn $37,533 annually ten years after enrollment, while carrying low debt burdens averaging $6,500. The school works best as an affordable stepping stone to transfer to a four-year university rather than as a final degree destination.
Which programs at Olney Central College have the best job prospects?
Most programs at Olney Central College focus on Liberal Arts and General Studies, which typically lead to transfer rather than direct employment. Students should plan to complete a bachelor's degree elsewhere to see meaningful salary gains.
How much debt do Olney Central College students graduate with?
Olney Central College students graduate with a median debt of $6,500, which is quite manageable compared to most colleges. The low debt load makes this school a financially safe choice for students unsure about their career direction.