At $131/yr net price, Reid State Technical College graduates earn $28,982/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $131 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $524 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $28,982/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-5,018/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 55.3% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $107/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $79/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $529/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $28,236 |
The Risk Factor
55.3% of students at Reid State Technical 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
Reid State Technical College offers an unusually strong financial proposition with a net price of just $131 per year, making it one of the most affordable higher education options in Alabama. Your return on investment depends heavily on completing your program, as the 55% graduation rate means nearly half of students leave without credentials.
The practical nursing program represents your best earning potential at $28,236 annually, which translates to solid middle-class income in rural Alabama where living costs remain low. Other technical programs at Reid State typically produce lower earnings, so you should research specific salary outcomes for your intended field before enrolling.
Your biggest financial risk is not finishing your program. The graduation rate suggests Reid State may lack adequate student support services, and dropping out means you lose time without gaining marketable skills. The extremely low cost reduces this risk compared to expensive programs elsewhere, but you still need to assess your readiness for technical training.
Reid State works best financially if you're seeking practical nursing credentials or other hands-on technical skills while staying in Alabama. The minimal cost makes it worth trying even if you're unsure about your career direction. However, if you need extensive academic support or want bachelor's degree pathways, you should consider community colleges with stronger completion rates and transfer agreements.
Financial aid covers nearly half of students despite the low sticker price, suggesting additional support for books, transportation, and living expenses. The school's location in rural Evergreen limits nearby employment options, so factor in potential relocation costs when calculating your total investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Reid State Technical College worth the cost?
Reid State Technical College costs almost nothing with a net price of $131 per year, making it financially accessible even with modest earnings of $29,000 after graduation. The low cost means minimal debt risk, though the graduation rate of 55% indicates many students don't finish.
What programs at Reid State Technical College have the best return on investment?
Nursing programs are the main focus at Reid State Technical College, with graduates earning around $28,000 annually. While this isn't high pay, the extremely low tuition cost means students can break even quickly without significant debt burden.
How much debt do Reid State Technical College graduates typically have?
Reid State Technical College students face minimal debt risk due to the $131 annual net price. Most students can complete programs without borrowing, making it a low-risk option even if career earnings remain modest.
Do Reid State Technical College graduates earn good money after graduation?
Reid State Technical College graduates earn about $29,000 per year after 10 years, which is below average for college graduates. However, the virtually free education means students aren't burdened by loan payments that would strain these modest incomes.