At $8,064/yr net price, Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College graduates earn $32,153/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,064 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $32,256 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $32,153/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-1,847/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 25.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,190 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $7,019/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $7,405/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $10,103/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $10,968/yr |
| $110,001+ | $15,575/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 | $55,512 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $40,728 | |
| Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. | Associate | $37,568 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $18,771 |
The Risk Factor
25.0% of students at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical 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
Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College offers a mixed financial picture with strong returns in healthcare but significant risks elsewhere. Your earning potential depends heavily on choosing the right program at this institution.
The nursing program delivers solid returns with graduates earning $55,512 annually, making the modest debt load worthwhile. Allied health diagnostic programs also provide decent value at $40,728 in median earnings. Clinical lab science graduates earn $37,568, which still justifies the investment given the low net price.
However, the 25% graduation rate presents a major financial risk. Three out of four students who enroll never finish their program, potentially leaving you with debt but no credential. This makes program selection critical since you need to be confident you can complete your chosen field.
The medical assisting program shows weak returns with graduates earning just $18,771 annually. This barely covers living expenses in the region and makes the debt burden questionable, even at relatively low amounts.
You should consider this school if you can commit to nursing or allied health programs and have strong confidence in your ability to graduate. The regional healthcare job market supports these graduates well. Skip this school if you're uncertain about your major or considering programs outside healthcare.
With over half of students receiving financial aid and low overall costs, affordability works in your favor if you choose wisely. Focus on healthcare programs where this school has proven track records, and avoid programs with weak employment outcomes that could leave you financially worse off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College worth the money?
The ROI is mixed - nursing programs lead to solid $55,000+ salaries, but the overall graduate earnings of $32,153 are below average. With low debt of $9,190 and affordable tuition, it's worth it mainly if you complete a healthcare program.
What is the graduation rate at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College?
Only 25% of students graduate, which is concerning for ROI. This means three-quarters of students leave without completing their program, potentially with debt but no credential.
Which programs at Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College have the best job prospects?
Registered nursing graduates earn around $55,512, making it the clear winner. Allied health diagnostic programs pay $40,728, while medical assisting services only lead to $18,771 salaries.
How much debt do Southern West Virginia Community and Technical College graduates have?
Median debt is relatively low at $9,190, and the net price is just $8,064 per year. The debt burden is manageable if you actually graduate and enter a well-paying healthcare field.