At $19,223/yr net price, Thomas College graduates earn $44,991/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $10,991/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $19,223 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $76,892 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $44,991/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$10,991/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 51.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $24,250 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $14,911/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $14,423/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $16,595/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $20,590/yr |
| $110,001+ | $24,441/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Master | $49,883 | $20,500 |
The Risk Factor
51.4% of students at Thomas 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
Thomas College delivers mixed returns that depend heavily on your program choice and career goals. The school's $44,991 median earnings after 10 years provide a reasonable return on the $19,223 annual net price, but the 51% graduation rate creates significant financial risk.
Business Administration stands out as the clear winner financially, with graduates earning nearly $50,000 annually while carrying just $20,500 in debt. This program makes Thomas College financially viable for students committed to business careers in Maine's regional market.
The school's biggest financial red flag is its low graduation rate. Nearly half of students leave without completing their degree, meaning you could end up with debt but no credential. The 79% retention rate suggests many students struggle to adjust or find value in their first year.
Thomas College works best financially for Maine residents planning business careers who want small class sizes and personal attention. The regional focus means graduates typically stay in Maine, where the lower cost of living makes the earnings more valuable than they appear on paper.
You should look elsewhere if you need stronger academic support systems, want prestige for graduate school applications, or plan to work in high-cost markets where Thomas College lacks name recognition. The school's limited financial aid reach, with only 15% of students receiving aid, means middle-income families often pay close to full price.
Consider Thomas College if you value the small-school experience, plan to work in Maine after graduation, and can commit to completing your degree. Skip it if you need extensive academic support or want maximum flexibility in your post-graduation location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Thomas College worth the cost compared to other Maine schools?
Thomas College graduates earn $44,991 after 10 years, which is below the national average for college graduates. With a net price of $19,223 annually and median debt of $24,250, the financial return is modest but manageable for most students.
What programs at Thomas College have the best job prospects?
Business Administration and Management graduates from Thomas College earn around $49,883, which is above the school's overall graduate average. These programs represent the college's strongest career outcomes and best return on investment.
How much debt do Thomas College students typically graduate with?
Thomas College students graduate with a median debt of $24,250, which is reasonable compared to national averages. However, with a 51% graduation rate, nearly half of students leave without completing their degree while potentially carrying debt.
Does Thomas College provide good financial aid to make it affordable?
Thomas College's net price of $19,223 suggests decent financial aid for many students. The relatively low debt levels indicate the school tries to keep costs manageable, though outcomes vary significantly by program.