At $5,112/yr net price, Virginia Highlands Community College graduates earn $32,681/yr within 10 years of enrollment.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $5,112 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $20,448 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $32,681/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | $-1,319/yr |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 41.7% |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $4,811/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $4,877/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $6,057/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $6,509/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 | $49,370 | |
| Electrical and Power Transmission Installers. | Associate | $37,568 | |
| Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions. | Certificate | $17,846 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $17,425 |
The Risk Factor
41.7% of students at Virginia Highlands 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
Virginia Highlands Community College offers a mixed financial picture with strong returns in healthcare and technical fields but weak outcomes in general studies. At $5,112 per year, your upfront costs stay manageable, but the 41% graduation rate means substantial dropout risk.
The nursing program delivers strong value, with graduates earning $49,370 annually compared to the school's $32,681 median. Electrical and power transmission training also pays off well at $37,568, reflecting strong demand for skilled trades in Southwest Virginia's energy sector. These programs justify your investment and provide clear career paths in the regional economy.
Liberal arts and general studies programs show poor financial returns, with graduates earning just $17,425 annually. Mental health services graduates earn similarly low wages at $17,846. If you're considering these majors, transfer to a four-year program becomes essential for better earning potential.
Virginia Highlands works best if you target specific career training in nursing or technical fields. The low net price makes it affordable for workforce development, and the rural location keeps living costs down. However, the graduation rate suggests many students struggle to complete programs, creating financial risk if you don't finish.
This school suits you if you need affordable healthcare or technical training close to home in Southwest Virginia. Look elsewhere if you want broad academic preparation or higher-earning career options. The school's value depends entirely on choosing the right program and actually graduating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Virginia Highlands Community College worth the money?
With a net price of $5,112 per year, Virginia Highlands Community College offers decent value if you complete your program. However, the 42% graduation rate means many students don't finish, which eliminates any return on investment.
What are the best paying programs at Virginia Highlands Community College?
Nursing programs at Virginia Highlands lead to median earnings of $49,370 after graduation. Electrical and power transmission programs also pay well at $37,568, while liberal arts graduates earn only $17,425.
How much do Virginia Highlands Community College graduates make?
Virginia Highlands graduates earn a median of $32,681 ten years after enrollment. This is relatively low compared to four-year colleges, though the school's low cost helps offset weaker earning potential.
Should I take on debt to attend Virginia Highlands Community College?
The low annual cost of $5,112 makes Virginia Highlands accessible without heavy borrowing. However, avoid significant debt for programs like liberal arts that lead to earnings under $18,000.