Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $12,993 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $51,972 |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 6.7% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $29,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $12,940/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $13,585/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $14,043/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 | $16,169 | $24,813 |
The Risk Factor
6.7% of students at Shorter 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
Shorter College presents a concerning financial picture with extremely poor outcomes that make it difficult to recommend from an ROI perspective. The 6.7% graduation rate signals that most students leave without completing their programs, often carrying debt with no credential to show for it.
The median earnings of $16,169 for Liberal Arts graduates falls well below living wage standards and creates a problematic debt-to-income ratio when paired with $24,813 in typical borrowing. You would struggle to make loan payments on these earnings while covering basic living expenses.
The $13,000 annual net price might seem manageable for a private college, but it becomes expensive when you factor in the high likelihood of non-completion. With over 80% of students receiving financial aid, the school clearly serves a population that needs affordability, yet the outcomes suggest students are not getting value for their investment.
This school makes financial sense only if you have a clear backup plan and can afford to lose the investment. Students who need guaranteed career preparation or have limited financial resources should look at community colleges with stronger completion rates or four-year schools with better job placement records.
The data suggests systemic issues with student support and program effectiveness that go beyond typical community college challenges. You face significant risk of leaving with debt but no degree, which represents the worst possible financial outcome in higher education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shorter College worth the cost compared to other Arkansas schools?
Shorter College has a concerning 6.7% graduation rate and median debt of $29,500, making it a high-risk investment. Most students don't finish their degree, yet still accumulate significant debt.
What is the ROI for Shorter College graduates?
With most programs leading to earnings around $16,000 and a median debt load of $29,500, graduates face negative ROI for years after leaving. The extremely low graduation rate means most students pay tuition without completing a degree.
Which programs at Shorter College have the best job prospects?
Liberal Arts and General Studies are the main programs, but they typically lead to starting salaries around $16,000. These low earnings make it difficult to justify the debt burden, especially given the school's poor completion rates.
Should I attend Shorter College if I need financial aid?
The net price of $12,993 per year is relatively affordable, but the 6.7% graduation rate means financial aid often goes toward an incomplete education. Consider community college or schools with higher completion rates for better value.