At $4,443/yr net price, South Florida State College graduates earn $39,990/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $5,990/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $4,443 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $17,772 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $39,990/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$5,990/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 51.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $7,368 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,521/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $3,285/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $4,927/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $5,921/yr |
| $110,001+ | $6,532/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Bachelor | $28,598 |
The Risk Factor
51.1% of students at South Florida State 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
South Florida State College delivers strong financial value with a rock-bottom net price of $4,443 annually and minimal debt burden of $7,368 upon graduation. Your return on investment centers on getting career training at an strongly low cost rather than chasing high earnings.
The earnings picture tells a mixed story. While the median graduate earns $39,990 ten years out, Business Administration majors see significantly lower returns at $28,598 annually. This suggests you should avoid business programs here and focus on the college's stronger vocational offerings that likely drive the higher overall median.
The 51% graduation rate presents the biggest financial risk. Nearly half of students leave without completing their programs, turning what should be affordable education into wasted money and time. If you struggle with academic persistence or need extensive support services, this environment may not set you up for success.
This college works best if you want practical job training without student loan debt. The low net price makes it accessible even for families with limited financial aid eligibility, though 44% of students do receive some assistance. You can likely graduate with minimal borrowing regardless of your family's income.
South Florida State College makes financial sense for students seeking affordable certification or associate-level training who plan to work locally. Skip this option if you need a bachelor's degree for your career goals or want to maximize earning potential. The combination of low costs and modest outcomes creates solid value for the right student, but won't transform your economic prospects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is South Florida State College worth the cost?
South Florida State College offers decent value with a low net price of $4,443 annually and manageable debt levels around $7,368. However, graduates earn only $39,990 ten years after enrollment, which is below the national average for college graduates.
What is the return on investment for South Florida State College degrees?
The ROI varies significantly by program at South Florida State College. Business programs lead to earnings around $28,598, while the overall graduate average of $39,990 suggests other programs may offer better returns than business.
How much debt do South Florida State College graduates typically have?
South Florida State College graduates leave with relatively low debt, typically around $7,368. The low cost of attendance helps keep borrowing minimal compared to four-year institutions.
Do South Florida State College graduates find good jobs?
With a 51% graduation rate and average earnings of $39,990, South Florida State College produces mixed employment outcomes. The low cost helps offset the modest earning potential, but career prospects depend heavily on your chosen program.