At $9,400/yr net price, Waukesha County Technical College graduates earn $46,894/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $12,894/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $9,400 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $37,600 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $46,894/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$12,894/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 2.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 46.2% |
| 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 | $6,866/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,852/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,612/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $12,844/yr |
| $110,001+ | $13,013/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $64,493 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Certificate | $57,318 | |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $55,117 | $15,750 |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $50,856 | $18,091 |
| Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $47,930 | |
| Computer Programming. | Associate | $47,846 | |
| Ground Transportation. | Certificate | $47,260 | |
| Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications. | Associate | $44,356 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $43,798 | |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $42,235 |
The Risk Factor
46.2% of students at Waukesha County Technical 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
Waukesha County Technical College delivers solid financial returns for its technical programs, with most graduates earning well above the national community college average while keeping debt manageable.
The electromechanical instrumentation program stands out as the strongest financial bet, producing graduates who earn $64,493 annually. Criminal justice and nursing programs also perform well, both crossing the $55,000 threshold. These earnings reflect southeastern Wisconsin's manufacturing base and healthcare demand, where technical skills command premium wages.
Your debt load will likely stay reasonable across all programs. Even nursing graduates, who carry the highest debt at $15,750, can pay this off quickly given their earning potential. Most programs result in debt well below the $12,000 median.
The 46% graduation rate presents the biggest financial risk at this school. If you struggle with self-direction or need extensive academic support, you might not finish your program. However, those who do complete their studies typically see strong job placement in the Milwaukee metro area's strong manufacturing and healthcare sectors.
This school works best if you want hands-on technical training without the cost and time commitment of a four-year degree. The low net price makes it accessible for career changers and first-generation college students. Avoid this school if you need extensive remedial coursework or prefer theoretical over practical learning.
Financial aid opportunities appear limited, with only 11% of students receiving aid. This suggests most students can afford the low sticker price without significant assistance, but also means fewer merit scholarships if you need help with costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Waukesha County Technical College worth the money?
With a net price of $9,400 per year and median debt of only $12,000, Waukesha County Technical College offers decent value for students who complete their programs. However, the 46% graduation rate means many students don't finish, which significantly reduces the return on investment.
What are the highest paying programs at Waukesha County Technical College?
Electromechanical Instrumentation pays the best at $64,493 annually, followed by Criminal Justice at $57,318 and Nursing at $55,117. These programs offer strong earning potential that justifies the relatively low tuition costs.
How much debt do Waukesha County Technical College graduates have?
The median debt is $12,000, which is manageable compared to four-year colleges. With most top programs earning $47,000-$64,000 annually, graduates can typically pay off this debt within a few years.
What is the job market like for Waukesha County Technical College graduates?
Average earnings of $46,894 ten years after enrollment are solid for a two-year technical college, especially in skilled trades and healthcare fields. The key is choosing high-demand programs like electromechanical technology or nursing rather than lower-paying options.