At $3,474/yr net price, Turtle Mountain Community College graduates earn $32,079/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $3,474 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $13,896 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $32,079/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-1,921/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 54.5% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $3,237/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $3,401/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $5,012/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. | Bachelor | $47,260 | |
| Ground Transportation. | Certificate | $28,212 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $25,194 |
The Risk Factor
54.5% of students at Turtle Mountain 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
Turtle Mountain Community College offers one of the lowest net prices in higher education at $3,474 annually, making the financial risk minimal even with modest post-graduation earnings of $32,079. The school's teacher education program stands out financially, producing graduates earning $47,260 compared to the overall median, creating a clear pathway to middle-class income in rural North Dakota.
Your choice of major matters significantly here. Teacher education graduates earn nearly double the school median, reflecting strong demand for educators in tribal and rural communities. Ground transportation and liberal arts programs produce much lower returns, with liberal arts graduates earning just $25,194 annually.
The school's 100% retention rate suggests students stay engaged, but the 54.5% graduation rate means completion remains a real risk. However, the low sticker price means you won't accumulate crushing debt even if you don't finish.
This school makes financial sense if you're pursuing teacher education and plan to work in Native communities or rural areas where cultural knowledge provides competitive advantages. The combination of low debt and targeted career preparation creates positive ROI for education majors specifically.
Avoid this school if you're seeking programs that translate to urban job markets or higher-earning technical fields. The limited program offerings and rural location constrain earning potential outside education and local industries.
With 58% of students receiving aid, federal Pell Grants likely cover most costs for qualifying students. The tribal college status may provide additional funding opportunities for Native American students, potentially making attendance nearly free for many students.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Turtle Mountain Community College worth the cost?
With a net price of $3,474 per year, Turtle Mountain Community College offers affordable education, but graduates earn just $32,079 annually after 10 years. The low cost makes it financially accessible, though earning potential remains limited for most programs.
What are the best paying programs at Turtle Mountain Community College?
Teacher Education graduates from Turtle Mountain Community College earn around $47,260, making it the highest-paying program. Ground Transportation pays about $28,212, while Liberal Arts graduates typically earn $25,194.
How much debt do Turtle Mountain Community College graduates have?
The low net price of $3,474 per year at Turtle Mountain Community College means students can graduate with minimal debt if they avoid excessive borrowing. However, with a 54.5% graduation rate, many students risk accumulating debt without completing their programs.
Does Turtle Mountain Community College have good job placement rates?
Turtle Mountain Community College's 54.5% graduation rate indicates that nearly half of students don't finish their programs. While specific job placement data isn't available, the low average earnings of $32,079 suggest limited career advancement opportunities for most graduates.