At $4,652/yr net price, Southern Crescent Technical College graduates earn $36,104/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $2,104/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $4,652 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $18,608 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $36,104/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$2,104/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 8.8 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 51.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $3,445/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $4,602/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $7,183/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $10,086/yr |
| $110,001+ | $12,732/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $41,441 | $12,981 |
| Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies. | Certificate | $39,049 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $37,928 | |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Certificate | $37,208 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Certificate | $36,192 | |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $35,518 | $4,966 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $28,598 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Associate | $28,236 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Associate | $27,947 | |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Certificate | $25,194 |
The Risk Factor
51.1% of students at Southern Crescent Technical 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
Southern Crescent Technical College delivers solid financial returns for a two-year school, with graduates earning $36,104 annually against minimal debt loads. The $4,652 net price makes this one of Georgia's more affordable technical training options.
Allied health programs stand out as the clear financial winners, with diagnostic and treatment specialties producing $41,441 in median earnings. Heavy equipment maintenance and precision metalworking also beat the school average, hitting nearly $39,000 annually. HVAC technician training rounds out the top-earning programs at $37,208.
The school's biggest financial risk is its 51% graduation rate. Nearly half of students leave without completing their programs, wasting both time and money. If you struggle with self-direction or need extensive academic support, this completion rate should concern you.
Your best financial bet here involves the hands-on technical trades where regional demand stays strong. Metro Atlanta's construction boom and healthcare expansion create steady job pipelines for SCTC graduates. Avoid programs not listed among the top earners, as they likely lead to below-average wages.
The $9,500 median debt burden stays manageable for most technical careers, especially given that nearly half of students receive financial aid. Community college transfer students and career changers find good value here, particularly if you can complete your program and land jobs in the recommended fields.
Skip Southern Crescent if you want four-year degree pathways or need extensive student services. This school works for motivated students seeking direct entry into Georgia's technical job market, not those requiring hand-holding through completion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Southern Crescent Technical College worth the cost?
With a net price of $4,652 annually and median debt of only $9,500, Southern Crescent Technical College offers solid value for career training. The low cost makes it financially accessible, though the 51% graduation rate means about half of students don't complete their programs.
What are the highest paying programs at Southern Crescent Technical College?
Allied Health programs lead earnings at $41,441 annually, followed by Heavy Equipment Maintenance at $39,049. HVAC and Precision Metal Working programs both pay around $37,000, which is above the school's overall average of $36,104.
How much debt do Southern Crescent Technical College graduates typically have?
The median debt is $9,500, which is manageable compared to most colleges. Given the low annual cost of $4,652, students who work or receive financial aid can often graduate with minimal debt.
Do Southern Crescent Technical College graduates earn enough to justify the cost?
With average earnings of $36,104 and low debt levels, graduates typically see positive returns on their investment. However, earnings vary significantly by program, with some health and technical trades paying much better than others.