At $5,571/yr net price, Southeastern Illinois College graduates earn $33,763/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $5,571 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $22,284 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $33,763/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-237/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 51.0% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,583/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $4,980/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $7,481/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $8,609/yr |
The Risk Factor
51.0% of students at Southeastern Illinois 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 Illinois College delivers mixed financial returns that depend heavily on your program choice and career goals. The low net price of around $5,600 annually makes this community college accessible, but median earnings of $33,763 ten years after enrollment fall below national averages for college graduates.
Your program selection at SIC will determine whether the investment pays off. Healthcare programs like nursing and medical assisting typically lead to stronger earning potential in southern Illinois, where healthcare jobs remain stable. Trade programs in welding, automotive technology, and industrial maintenance align well with regional manufacturing and energy sector opportunities. Business and liberal arts programs show weaker returns given the limited white-collar job market in the area.
The 51% graduation rate presents a significant financial risk. Nearly half of students fail to complete their programs, leaving them with debt but no credential. You face additional risk if you plan to transfer to a four-year university, as not all credits may transfer smoothly.
SIC makes financial sense if you plan to work locally after graduation in healthcare or skilled trades, or if you need affordable prerequisite courses before transferring. The school works less well financially if you aim for careers requiring bachelor's degrees or plan to work in higher-cost metropolitan areas where the earning potential might not justify even this modest investment.
With only 23% of students receiving financial aid, most pay the full net price. The school offers some merit scholarships for high-performing high school students, but options remain limited. Your best cost strategy involves completing your program quickly and leveraging local internship connections that faculty maintain with area employers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Southeastern Illinois College worth the cost?
With a low net price of $5,571 per year, Southeastern Illinois College offers reasonable value for students who complete their programs. However, graduates earn only $33,763 annually after 10 years, which limits long-term financial returns.
What is the return on investment for Southeastern Illinois College?
The ROI is modest due to low post-graduation earnings of around $34,000 annually. While the affordable tuition helps minimize debt, the earning potential may not justify the investment for students seeking higher-paying careers.
How much debt do Southeastern Illinois College graduates have?
The low annual cost of $5,571 helps students avoid heavy debt loads compared to four-year universities. This makes the financial risk more manageable, especially for students completing career-focused programs.
Do Southeastern Illinois College programs lead to good jobs?
Career outcomes vary significantly by program, but the 51% graduation rate suggests many students struggle to complete their studies. Students should research specific program job placement rates and local employer demand before enrolling.