At $8,478/yr net price, Tallahassee Community College graduates earn $37,561/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $3,561/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,478 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $33,912 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $37,561/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$3,561/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 9.5 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 36.9% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $7,668 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $5,597/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $6,965/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,373/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $11,641/yr |
| $110,001+ | $12,249/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 | $50,856 | $9,750 |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $50,105 | $10,750 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $42,682 | $16,667 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Certificate | $35,740 | $7,813 |
| Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General. | Associate | $31,581 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $21,218 | $7,343 |
The Risk Factor
36.9% of students at Tallahassee Community 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
Tallahassee Community College delivers strong financial returns if you choose the right program, but your major selection will make or break your investment. The $8,478 annual net price creates a low-risk environment for career exploration, though the 37% graduation rate means many students never reach the payoff.
Nursing and dental support programs justify the investment with graduates earning over $50,000 annually against relatively modest debt loads under $11,000. These healthcare tracks benefit from Tallahassee's position as Florida's capital, where government health services and regional medical facilities create steady demand. Allied health diagnostics also pays well at $42,682, though the $16,667 debt load cuts into returns.
Criminal justice graduates face a tougher financial reality, earning $35,740 with limited upward mobility in the regional market. General health sciences programs show weak returns at $31,581, making them poor investment choices unless you plan to transfer for a bachelor's degree.
The low graduation rate signals academic support challenges that could derail your investment. If you struggle with self-direction or need extensive academic scaffolding, consider four-year institutions with stronger retention programs. The 37% of students receiving financial aid suggests merit scholarships are limited, so expect to rely on federal aid and in-state tuition advantages.
TCC works best for cost-conscious students targeting specific healthcare careers or using it as an affordable stepping stone to a four-year degree. Avoid it if you need extensive career guidance or are considering lower-paying majors where the opportunity cost of time outweighs the modest debt savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tallahassee Community College worth the money?
Tallahassee Community College offers decent value with a low net price of $8,478 per year and median debt of only $7,668. However, the 37% graduation rate is concerning, and average earnings of $37,561 ten years after enrollment are modest.
What are the best paying programs at Tallahassee Community College?
Nursing programs at Tallahassee Community College provide the strongest returns, with graduates earning around $50,856 annually. Dental support services and allied health programs also pay well at $50,105 and $42,682 respectively.
How much debt do Tallahassee Community College graduates have?
Tallahassee Community College graduates carry a median debt of $7,668, which is relatively low for higher education. The affordable tuition helps keep borrowing minimal compared to four-year institutions.
What is the graduation rate at Tallahassee Community College?
Only 37% of students graduate from Tallahassee Community College within the tracked timeframe. This low completion rate means many students may not finish their programs and could struggle to see returns on their investment.