Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,618 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $34,472 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 48.1% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,444/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,451/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $5,739/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $12,138/yr |
| $110,001+ | $8,975/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 | $21,508 |
The Risk Factor
48.1% of students at Red Lake Nation 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
Red Lake Nation College presents significant financial risks with below-average outcomes that make it a questionable investment for most students. Your annual net price of $8,618 seems reasonable, but the 48% graduation rate means you face a coin-flip chance of completing your program.
The earnings data reveals a harsh reality: Liberal Arts and Sciences graduates earn just $21,508 annually, placing you well below living wage thresholds in most areas. This creates a problematic debt-to-income scenario even with the school's relatively low costs. Your return on investment calculations become challenging when nearly half of students don't graduate and those who do face limited earning potential.
The school makes financial sense for specific situations: if you qualify for substantial tribal education benefits that cover most costs, if you plan to transfer credits to a four-year institution, or if you're using this as affordable preparation for career training elsewhere. The 89% financial aid rate indicates most students receive some support, but you should verify what aid packages actually cover before committing.
You should look elsewhere if you need immediate career preparation with strong earning potential or if you're borrowing significant amounts to attend. The combination of moderate graduation rates and low post-graduation earnings creates financial risk that outweighs the benefits for many students. Consider this school primarily as a low-cost stepping stone rather than a destination that will transform your economic prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Red Lake Nation College worth the money?
Red Lake Nation College offers a relatively low net price at $8,618 per year, making it affordable compared to most four-year institutions. However, the 48% graduation rate means many students don't finish their degrees, which significantly impacts return on investment.
What is the job market like for Red Lake Nation College graduates?
The top programs at Red Lake Nation College are in Liberal Arts and General Studies, which typically lead to median earnings around $21,508. These fields generally offer limited high-paying career paths without additional education or training.
How much student debt do Red Lake Nation College students typically have?
With a net price of $8,618 annually, Red Lake Nation College students face lower debt loads than most college graduates. The bigger financial risk comes from the graduation rate, as students who don't complete their degrees still carry debt without the credential.
Should I choose Red Lake Nation College over other Minnesota schools?
Red Lake Nation College is significantly cheaper than most alternatives, but the low graduation rate and limited high-earning program options make it a risky investment for students not committed to finishing their degree.