At $12,812/yr net price, Southeastern Community College graduates earn $36,882/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $2,882/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $12,812 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $51,248 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $36,882/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$2,882/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 17.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 43.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $10,279/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $11,223/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $13,343/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $15,793/yr |
| $110,001+ | $16,582/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 | $54,597 | $18,475 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $45,696 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Associate | $38,871 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $34,171 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $33,993 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Associate | $31,305 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Certificate | $29,443 | $12,608 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $21,117 | $9,700 |
The Risk Factor
43.3% of students at Southeastern Community 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
Southeastern Community College delivers solid financial returns for students who choose the right programs, but your major selection matters significantly. The nursing program stands out with graduates earning $54,597 annually, making it one of the strongest ROI options despite carrying $18,475 in debt. Allied health programs also perform well at $45,696 in median earnings.
The college's low net price of $12,812 and manageable median debt of $12,000 create favorable conditions for most graduates to see positive returns quickly. However, the 43% graduation rate means many students leave without completing their programs, representing a significant financial risk if you struggle with course completion.
Business and precision metalworking programs show weaker returns relative to the investment, with earnings barely exceeding what many high school graduates achieve in the regional job market. Computer science offers middle-ground returns at $38,871, but you can likely find stronger tech programs elsewhere.
This school works best for students pursuing healthcare careers who want to minimize debt while gaining employable skills. The nursing program provides excellent value for students who can handle the academic rigor and complete the program. You should look elsewhere if you want four-year degree options or if you're considering the weaker-performing business programs.
Only 27% of students receive financial aid, suggesting limited need-based assistance available. Focus on completing your program quickly to maximize ROI, as the low graduation rate indicates many students extend their time to degree or drop out entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Southeastern Community College worth the cost?
For nursing programs, yes - graduates earn $54,597 annually against $12,000 in debt. Other programs show weaker returns, with general graduates earning just $36,882 ten years out.
What are the best paying programs at Southeastern Community College?
Registered nursing leads at $54,597 annually, followed by allied health programs at $45,696. Business and precision metalworking programs pay significantly less at around $34,000.
How much debt do Southeastern Community College graduates have?
Median debt is $12,000, which is manageable for nursing graduates but creates tight margins for lower-paying programs. The low debt load is the school's main financial advantage.
What is Southeastern Community College's graduation rate?
Only 43% of students graduate, meaning most who enroll don't finish their programs. This significantly reduces the school's value proposition for many students.