At $9,837/yr net price, Salem Community College graduates earn $38,020/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $4,020/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $9,837 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $39,348 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $38,020/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$4,020/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 9.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 37.2% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,552/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,057/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $10,736/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $14,788/yr |
| $110,001+ | $16,706/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 | $65,332 | $12,000 |
| Precision Production, Other. | Associate | $32,569 |
The Risk Factor
37.2% of students at Salem Community College 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
Salem Community College offers a weak financial return for most students, with median earnings of just $38,020 ten years after enrollment and a concerning 37% graduation rate.
The nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning $65,332 annually against $12,000 in debt. This creates a strong debt-to-income ratio that justifies the investment. However, the precision production program shows mediocre returns at $32,569, barely above the college median.
Your biggest financial risk at Salem is the low graduation rate. With nearly two-thirds of students failing to complete their programs, you face substantial odds of accumulating debt without earning a credential. The $9,500 median debt may seem manageable, but only if you actually graduate.
Salem makes financial sense if you can secure admission to the nursing program and have strong study habits to overcome the institutional completion challenges. The program's earning potential justifies the investment and positions you well in New Jersey's healthcare job market.
Avoid Salem for most other programs. The precision production track and unnamed programs drag down overall outcomes, and the low graduation rate suggests systemic academic support issues. Students seeking general education or exploring career options should consider alternatives with higher completion rates.
At $9,837 net price annually, Salem costs less than many community colleges, but this advantage disappears if you don't finish. Focus intensively on program selection and academic preparation before enrolling. The nursing program represents your best shot at positive returns, while other options carry significant financial risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Salem Community College worth the cost compared to other schools?
Salem Community College offers good value with a net price of $9,837 per year and relatively low debt of $9,500. However, graduates earn $38,020 after 10 years, which is below the national average for college graduates.
What are the best paying programs at Salem Community College?
Nursing programs at Salem Community College lead to the highest earnings at $65,332 annually. Other programs like Precision Production earn around $32,569, which is closer to the overall graduate average.
What is the graduation rate at Salem Community College and does it affect ROI?
Salem Community College has a 37% graduation rate, meaning most students don't complete their programs. This low completion rate significantly reduces the school's overall return on investment for many students.
Should I choose Salem Community College if I need financial aid?
Salem Community College is affordable with low tuition and manageable debt levels. The school works well for students seeking nursing careers, but those in other programs should consider whether the earnings justify even the low cost.