At $9,300/yr net price, South Georgia State College graduates earn $35,697/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $1,697/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $9,300 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $37,200 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $35,697/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$1,697/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 21.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 20.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $11,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,002/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,169/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $11,140/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $12,929/yr |
| $110,001+ | $13,742/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 | $53,894 | $13,622 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $21,356 | $11,000 |
The Risk Factor
20.3% of students at South Georgia State 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
South Georgia State College delivers weak financial returns for most students, with a median 10-year salary of just $35,697 that barely justifies even its low $9,300 annual cost. The 20% graduation rate means four out of five students leave without a degree, making this one of the riskiest investments in higher education.
Your program choice makes all the difference here. The nursing program produces graduates earning $53,894 annually, creating a strong ROI despite slightly higher debt loads at $13,622. Liberal arts graduates face harsh financial realities with median earnings of only $21,356, making the degree difficult to justify economically even at this low-cost institution.
The biggest risk at South Georgia State is simply not graduating. With only 60% of students returning for their second year, many accumulate debt without earning credentials. If you struggle with college-level academics or lack strong study habits, this school's high dropout rates suggest you might join the majority who leave empty-handed.
This college works financially if you can complete the nursing program or need an extremely affordable option while living at home in rural South Georgia. The low net price makes it accessible, and over half of students receive financial aid. However, if you have stronger academic credentials or can afford alternatives, you should look elsewhere. The combination of low graduation rates and poor post-graduation earnings makes South Georgia State suitable mainly for local students with limited options who can commit fully to completing their degrees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is South Georgia State College worth the cost?
South Georgia State College offers a low net price of $9,300 per year, but graduates earn only $35,697 annually after 10 years. The 20% graduation rate is concerning and suggests many students leave without completing their degree.
What programs at South Georgia State College have the best ROI?
Nursing programs at South Georgia State College provide the strongest return, with graduates earning $53,894 annually. Liberal arts and general studies graduates earn significantly less at $21,356, making these programs poor financial investments.
How much debt do South Georgia State College graduates have?
South Georgia State College graduates leave with a median debt of $11,500, which is relatively manageable. However, the low graduation rate means many students may accumulate debt without earning a degree.
Does South Georgia State College provide good financial aid?
The $9,300 net price suggests South Georgia State College provides substantial financial aid to reduce costs. Despite the low price, the poor graduation rate and modest earnings make the investment risky for most students.