At $7,403/yr net price, Potomac State College of West Virginia University graduates earn $55,939/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $21,939/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $7,403 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $29,612 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $55,939/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$21,939/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 26.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $22,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $5,309/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,317/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,738/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $10,946/yr |
| $110,001+ | $12,317/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 | $61,454 | $23,000 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $40,140 | $25,000 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Bachelor | $30,251 | $20,180 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $15,552 | $12,000 |
The Risk Factor
26.0% of students at Potomac State College of West Virginia University 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
Potomac State College offers weak financial returns that mask significant risks for most students. The 26% graduation rate means three out of four students leave without a degree, often carrying debt with no credential to show for it.
Your major choice determines whether this investment makes sense. Nursing graduates earn $61,454 annually with $23,000 in debt, creating a manageable debt-to-income ratio in a stable field with regional demand. Business administration graduates face a tougher reality at $40,140 in earnings against $25,000 in debt. Liberal arts programs deliver particularly poor returns, with some graduates earning just $15,552 annually.
The 60% retention rate signals that many students struggle academically or financially during their first year. Combined with the low graduation rate, you face substantial risk of leaving with debt but no degree. The rural West Virginia location limits internship and job opportunities compared to urban areas.
This school works financially if you plan to study nursing and can handle the academic demands. The low net price of $7,403 makes it affordable upfront, but the graduation statistics suggest many students underestimate the academic challenge.
You should look elsewhere if you want liberal arts, general studies, or are unsure about your major. The poor earnings outcomes for non-nursing programs combined with high dropout risk create unfavorable odds. Community college followed by transfer to a four-year school often provides better value and lower risk for students seeking general education or exploring career options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Potomac State College of West Virginia University worth the cost?
With a low net price of $7,403 per year and median earnings of $55,939 after graduation, Potomac State offers decent value for the cost. However, the 26% graduation rate means most students don't finish their programs.
What are the best paying programs at Potomac State College of West Virginia University?
Nursing programs pay the best at $61,454 annually, while business administration graduates earn around $40,140. Liberal arts programs have much lower earnings, with some graduates making only $15,552 per year.
How much debt do Potomac State College of West Virginia University graduates have?
Graduates typically leave with $22,500 in debt, which is manageable given the low tuition costs. The bigger concern is the low graduation rate, which increases the risk of taking on debt without earning a degree.
Should I attend Potomac State College of West Virginia University for liberal arts?
Liberal arts graduates from Potomac State earn between $15,552 and $30,251 annually, which may not provide strong return on investment even with low tuition. Consider whether these earnings will support loan repayment and living expenses.