At $4,974/yr net price, Western Nebraska Community College graduates earn $38,729/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $4,729/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $4,974 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $19,896 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $38,729/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$4,729/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 35.5% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $3,369/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $3,709/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $5,935/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $8,771/yr |
| $110,001+ | $9,790/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 | $53,775 | $12,498 |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $31,127 | $9,169 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $18,154 |
The Risk Factor
35.5% of students at Western Nebraska 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
Western Nebraska Community College delivers strong returns for career-focused programs but poor outcomes for general studies. At $4,974 annually, the school costs less than most community colleges, making the financial risk manageable even with the concerning 35% graduation rate.
Nursing programs provide the clearest path to financial success. Registered nursing graduates earn $53,775 annually with $12,498 in debt, creating a debt-to-income ratio that pays off quickly in Nebraska's healthcare market. Practical nursing offers a faster route to steady employment at $31,127 yearly with lower debt loads.
Liberal arts graduates face harsh financial realities, earning just $18,154 annually. This program creates a debt trap where your investment exceeds your earning potential for years. If you plan to transfer to a four-year school, complete your general education requirements here then leave immediately.
The low 35% graduation rate signals academic support problems or student preparedness issues. Factor this risk into your decision, especially if you struggled in high school. Only 25% of students receive financial aid, suggesting limited scholarship opportunities beyond federal grants.
You should consider Western Nebraska if you want nursing credentials at low cost or need affordable prerequisites for transfer. The school works best for local students who can avoid housing costs and have clear career goals in healthcare or skilled trades. Avoid this school if you need extensive academic support, want a traditional college experience, or plan to major in liberal arts without transferring.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Western Nebraska Community College worth the cost?
With a net price of $4,974 per year and relatively low median debt of $9,000, Western Nebraska Community College offers decent value for students who graduate. However, the 35% graduation rate means many students don't finish their programs.
What programs at Western Nebraska Community College have the best ROI?
Registered nursing programs lead with graduates earning $53,775 annually, while practical nursing graduates earn $31,127. Liberal arts graduates earn significantly less at $18,154, making career-focused programs the better investment.
How much debt do Western Nebraska Community College graduates typically have?
The median debt is $9,000, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. Nursing graduates can typically handle this debt load given their earning potential, but liberal arts graduates may struggle with repayment.
What are the biggest risks of attending Western Nebraska Community College?
The 35% graduation rate is the main concern, meaning most students don't complete their programs. Students should have clear career goals and strong academic preparation before enrolling.