At $5,580/yr net price, Stone Child College graduates earn $24,555/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $5,580 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $22,320 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $24,555/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-9,445/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 32.5% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $5,354/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $6,478/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $6,712/yr |
The Risk Factor
32.5% of students at Stone Child 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
Stone Child College delivers poor financial returns with median earnings of just $24,555 ten years after graduation, making it one of the lowest-earning institutions in Montana. The low graduation rate of 32.5% means most students never complete their degrees, creating significant financial risk for anyone taking on debt.
The college serves the Little Shell Tribe and Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, focusing primarily on associate degrees and certificates in fields like business, education, and human services. These programs typically lead to local employment opportunities, but the remote location limits job market options and salary growth potential.
Your biggest financial risk here is the dropout rate. With only one in three students graduating, you face high odds of leaving with debt but no degree. The college works best financially if you can complete your program and plan to work locally, where the low cost of living makes the modest earnings more viable.
Stone Child College makes financial sense if you qualify for substantial tribal scholarships or federal aid that covers most costs. The net price of $5,580 is manageable, but only if you graduate and secure employment. Avoid this school if you need to take significant loans or if your career goals require higher earning potential than local positions typically offer.
Consider this college primarily as a stepping stone to transfer to a four-year institution or if you have strong community ties that make local employment desirable. The combination of low completion rates and limited earning potential creates substantial financial risk for most students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stone Child College worth the money?
Stone Child College has a very low return on investment, with graduates earning only $24,555 ten years after enrollment despite a net cost of $5,580 annually. The 32.5% graduation rate means most students don't finish their programs.
What is the job market like for Stone Child College graduates?
Stone Child College graduates face limited earning potential, with median earnings of $24,555 after ten years. This places graduate earnings well below national averages for college degree holders.
Should I take out loans to attend Stone Child College?
Taking loans for Stone Child College carries significant risk given the low graduate earnings and poor completion rates. The low post-graduation income makes loan repayment challenging for most students.
What programs at Stone Child College have the best ROI?
Given the overall low earnings outcomes across programs, Stone Child College does not offer strong financial returns compared to other educational options. Students should carefully research specific career outcomes before enrolling.