At $4,584/yr net price, Tri-County Community College graduates earn $32,232/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $4,584 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $18,336 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $32,232/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-1,768/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 53.6% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,190/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $4,137/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $6,037/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 | $47,846 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Certificate | $21,964 | |
| Allied Health and Medical Assisting Services. | Associate | $21,508 | |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $21,052 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $16,580 |
The Risk Factor
53.6% of students at Tri-County Community 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
Tri-County Community College offers strong financial returns for specific career-focused programs, particularly in healthcare, though outcomes vary dramatically by major choice.
The nursing program stands out as the clear winner financially, with graduates earning $47,846 annually compared to the school's overall median of $32,232. At $4,584 per year in net costs, nursing students can expect to recoup their investment within months of graduation. This program alone justifies the college's existence for students committed to healthcare careers.
Your major choice matters more at Tri-County than at most schools. While nursing graduates earn nearly $48,000, liberal arts students average just $16,580 annually. The precision metalworking program offers middle-ground earnings at $21,964, reflecting demand for skilled trades in western North Carolina's manufacturing sector.
The 53.6% graduation rate signals completion challenges you should consider seriously. Nearly half of students leave without finishing, making program selection and academic preparation critical to your success.
Tri-County works best for students targeting specific vocations, especially nursing, or those needing affordable credits to transfer elsewhere. The low net price makes it accessible even if you receive no financial aid, which applies to 70% of students here.
Avoid this school if you want broad career flexibility or plan to stop at an associate degree in general studies. The liberal arts earnings barely exceed minimum wage work. You're better served either choosing a specific vocational track here or starting at a four-year institution if you can afford it.
For career changers or students with clear healthcare goals, Tri-County delivers solid returns. For everyone else, the financial picture grows murky quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tri-County Community College worth the cost?
With a net price of $4,584 per year and average earnings of $32,232 after graduation, Tri-County Community College offers reasonable value for the cost. However, the 54% graduation rate means nearly half of students don't finish their programs.
What are the highest paying programs at Tri-County Community College?
Nursing programs at Tri-County Community College lead to the highest earnings at $47,846 annually, more than double the school average. Precision metal working pays $21,964, while liberal arts graduates earn only $16,580.
How much debt do Tri-County Community College students graduate with?
At $4,584 per year, Tri-County Community College costs significantly less than four-year schools, making debt manageable for most students. The low cost means students can often graduate with minimal debt if they complete their programs.
Should I choose Tri-County Community College over a four-year university?
Tri-County Community College makes sense if you want nursing training or skilled trades at low cost. For higher-earning careers requiring bachelor's degrees, the school's $32,232 average earnings may limit long-term income potential.