At $3,430/yr net price, Patrick & Henry Community College graduates earn $33,323/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $3,430 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $13,720 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $33,323/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-677/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 45.3% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $2,934/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $2,777/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $5,632/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $9,249/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 | $48,265 | |
| Electrical/Electronics Maintenance and Repair Technology. | Associate | $43,240 | |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $38,289 | |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Certificate | $24,035 | |
| Business Operations Support and Assistant Services. | Associate | $24,035 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Associate | $21,508 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $16,478 |
The Risk Factor
45.3% of students at Patrick & Henry Community 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
Patrick & Henry Community College delivers solid financial returns for career-focused students, with a low net price of $3,430 annually making it accessible even if your graduation timeline extends beyond two years.
The nursing programs represent your strongest financial bet here. Registered nursing graduates earn $48,265 annually, creating a clear path to middle-class income in rural Virginia. Electrical maintenance technology also pays well at $43,240, addressing regional demand from manufacturing employers. Even practical nursing provides decent returns at $38,289 for a shorter program.
Business operations and mental health programs show weaker earnings at $24,035, barely above what you might earn without a degree in this region. These fields typically require additional credentials or four-year degrees to reach higher pay grades.
The 45% graduation rate signals completion challenges you need to consider. Community college success requires self-direction and time management skills. If you struggle with independent learning or have unstable housing or work situations, factor in potential extended enrollment costs.
This school works financially if you target the healthcare or technical programs and can complete your studies within three years. The low sticker price provides cushion for setbacks. You should look elsewhere if you want broad liberal arts exploration or need extensive academic support services that larger institutions provide.
Nearly half of students receive financial aid, suggesting additional grant opportunities exist to reduce your already modest costs. Focus your applications on programs with clear regional job demand rather than general studies tracks that lead nowhere specific.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Patrick & Henry Community College worth the cost?
At $3,430 per year, Patrick & Henry Community College offers solid value for specific career programs. Nursing graduates earn $48,265 annually while electrical technology graduates make $43,240, both well above the school's overall average of $33,323.
What is the ROI for Patrick & Henry Community College graduates?
The ROI varies significantly by program at Patrick & Henry Community College. Healthcare and technical programs like nursing and electrical maintenance show strong returns, while business support and mental health programs lead to lower earnings around $24,035 annually.
Does Patrick & Henry Community College have a good graduation rate?
Patrick & Henry Community College has a 45% graduation rate, which is typical for community colleges but means over half of students don't complete their programs. Students should have clear career goals and support systems before enrolling.
What debt can I expect from Patrick & Henry Community College?
With a net price of $3,430 per year, Patrick & Henry Community College keeps debt relatively low compared to four-year schools. However, students in lower-paying programs may still struggle to justify even this modest cost based on earnings potential.