At $9,832/yr net price, Palm Beach State College graduates earn $41,923/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $7,923/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $9,832 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $39,328 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $41,923/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$7,923/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 41.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $7,081 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,862/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $9,567/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $11,376/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $14,504/yr |
| $110,001+ | $16,057/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. | Bachelor | $81,997 | $10,500 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Certificate | $55,770 | $4,892 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $55,151 | $8,750 |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Bachelor | $51,273 | $10,150 |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $48,432 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $42,682 | $11,250 |
| Legal Support Services. | Associate | $38,829 | |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | Associate | $37,424 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $36,674 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Certificate | $36,132 | $4,025 |
The Risk Factor
41.2% of students at Palm Beach State 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
Palm Beach State College delivers strong financial value for career-focused students, with a low net price of under $10,000 annually and minimal debt loads that make the investment manageable even if earnings disappoint.
The nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning over $80,000 annually despite carrying slightly higher debt loads around $10,500. Criminal justice also performs well at nearly $56,000 in median earnings with just under $5,000 in debt. Computer technology and dental support programs offer solid middle-ground options with earnings in the high $40,000s to low $50,000s.
The major financial risk here is the 41% graduation rate, meaning nearly six in ten students leave without completing their programs. This makes program selection critical since you need to actually finish to see any return. The low overall median earnings of $42,000 reflect the mix of programs and the regional South Florida job market, where many graduates compete for positions that may not require degrees.
This school works best for students pursuing specific career training in healthcare, technology, or criminal justice who can commit to completing their programs. The financial aid picture is lighter than most schools, with only 38% receiving aid, suggesting either lower-income students are well-served by the low sticker price or the school serves more working adults paying out of pocket.
Avoid this school if you need broad academic preparation for transfer to a four-year university, as the completion rates and earnings data suggest the value proposition weakens outside the targeted career programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Palm Beach State College worth the cost?
Palm Beach State College offers solid value with a low net price of $9,832 annually and typical debt of just $7,081. However, the 41% graduation rate means many students don't finish, which hurts overall ROI.
What are the highest paying programs at Palm Beach State College?
Nursing programs at Palm Beach State College lead to the strongest earnings, with graduates earning around $82,000 annually. Criminal justice and IT programs also perform well, with mid-career salaries in the $50,000+ range.
How much debt do Palm Beach State College graduates typically have?
Palm Beach State College graduates carry relatively low debt loads, with a median of $7,081. This manageable debt level makes the investment less risky compared to four-year institutions.
What is the job market like for Palm Beach State College graduates?
Palm Beach State College graduates earn a median of $41,923 ten years after enrollment, which is reasonable for a community college. The nursing and healthcare programs offer the best job prospects and salary potential in the local market.