At $6,935/yr net price, Wake Technical Community College graduates earn $41,769/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $7,769/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $6,935 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $27,740 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $41,769/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$7,769/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 3.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 31.4% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $12,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $6,008/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,813/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $6,675/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $9,593/yr |
| $110,001+ | $13,266/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | Associate | $58,221 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $57,060 | $17,104 |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $53,358 | |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Associate | $52,875 | |
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $48,432 | |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General. | Associate | $47,952 | $13,702 |
| Computer Programming. | Associate | $46,087 | |
| Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies. | Associate | $46,087 | |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Associate | $45,026 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $44,542 | $14,689 |
The Risk Factor
31.4% of students at Wake Technical 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
Wake Technical Community College offers solid financial returns for a two-year program, with graduates earning a median $41,769 annually against just $12,000 in typical debt. Your investment pays off quickly in high-demand technical fields that align with Raleigh's growing job market.
Computer networking and nursing programs deliver the strongest returns, with networking graduates earning $58,221 and nurses $57,060. Dental support services and IT management also clear $50,000 annually. These programs connect directly to Triangle-area employers who hire Wake Tech graduates regularly. Industrial production technology rounds out the top earners at $48,432, reflecting the region's manufacturing presence.
The 31% graduation rate presents the biggest financial risk. You face real chances of accumulating debt without completing your program. Wake Tech's low net price of $6,935 limits your downside exposure compared to four-year schools, but incomplete programs still waste time and money.
You should consider Wake Tech if you want quick entry into healthcare, IT, or skilled trades without massive debt. The school works especially well if you plan to stay in the Raleigh area, where local employer relationships create clear job pipelines. Avoid Wake Tech if you need extensive academic support or prefer smaller class environments, as the low graduation rate suggests many students struggle to finish.
Only 27% of students receive financial aid, indicating either modest need-based aid availability or a student body that largely pays out-of-pocket. The low sticker price makes merit scholarships less critical than at expensive schools. Your best cost strategy involves choosing high-earning programs and finishing quickly to minimize opportunity costs while maximizing your credential's market value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wake Technical Community College worth the money?
Wake Technical Community College offers strong value with a low net price of $6,935 per year and median debt of only $12,000. However, the 31% graduation rate means many students don't finish, which significantly impacts ROI for those who don't complete their programs.
What are the highest paying programs at Wake Technical Community College?
Computer networking and nursing programs at Wake Technical lead earnings, with graduates earning $58,221 and $57,060 respectively within 10 years. These technical programs justify the investment, while other programs may not provide the same financial return.
How much debt do Wake Technical Community College graduates have?
Wake Technical graduates carry a median debt of $12,000, which is manageable compared to four-year colleges. With average earnings of $41,769 after 10 years, most graduates can handle this debt load if they complete their programs.
What is the job market like for Wake Technical Community College graduates?
Wake Technical graduates enter a strong job market in Raleigh's growing tech and healthcare sectors. The school's focus on in-demand technical skills means graduates in top programs find work, but success depends heavily on choosing the right program and actually graduating.