At $4,156/yr net price, Tohono O'odham Community College graduates earn $39,229/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $5,229/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $4,156 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $16,624 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $39,229/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$5,229/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 10.3% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,191/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $3,569/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $6,426/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $4,251/yr |
The Risk Factor
10.3% of students at Tohono O'odham 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
Tohono O'odham Community College presents a challenging financial picture with a 10% graduation rate that significantly undermines potential returns on your investment. While the $4,156 annual net price ranks among the most affordable in the country, the extremely low completion rate means most students spend money without earning credentials.
Your median earnings of $39,229 ten years after enrollment reflect the mix of completers and non-completers, making it difficult to assess true program value. The college serves the Tohono O'odham Nation with culturally relevant programs, but you face substantial completion risks that outweigh the low sticker price for most career-focused students.
This institution works best if you need affordable access to higher education while remaining in your community, particularly for cultural preservation programs or as a stepping stone to four-year institutions. The college offers pathways in education, business, and healthcare support roles that align with regional tribal government and healthcare employment.
You should look elsewhere if your primary goal is workforce preparation with strong completion odds. The graduation statistics indicate serious retention challenges that make degree completion unlikely for most students. Transfer students planning to complete elsewhere may find value in the low-cost foundation courses, but you need realistic backup plans.
Financial aid covers costs for nearly one-third of students, and the low net price means debt levels stay minimal even without completing. However, the opportunity cost of time spent without graduating often exceeds the modest tuition savings compared to regional alternatives with better completion rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tohono O'odham Community College worth the cost?
With a net price of $4,156 per year, Tohono O'odham Community College is affordable, but graduates earn only $39,229 annually after 10 years. The extremely low 10% graduation rate means most students don't complete their programs, making the investment risky despite the low cost.
What is the graduation rate at Tohono O'odham Community College?
Tohono O'odham Community College has a 10% graduation rate, meaning 9 out of 10 students don't finish their programs. This creates significant risk that you'll spend money and time without earning a credential.
How much do Tohono O'odham Community College graduates earn?
Graduates from Tohono O'odham Community College earn $39,229 per year 10 years after starting college. This is below the national average for community college graduates and may limit your ability to pay back student loans quickly.
Should I take out loans for Tohono O'odham Community College?
With post-graduation earnings of $39,229 and a 10% graduation rate, taking loans for Tohono O'odham Community College carries high risk. The low completion rate means you might accumulate debt without earning a degree.