At $8,420/yr net price, Western Wyoming Community College graduates earn $40,939/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $6,939/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $8,420 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $33,680 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $40,939/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$6,939/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 33.3% |
| 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 | $7,707/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $8,294/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $10,674/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $10,332/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $28,019 |
The Risk Factor
33.3% of students at Western Wyoming 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 Wyoming Community College offers a low-cost education at $8,420 per year, but the financial returns are concerning. With median earnings of $40,939 ten years after enrollment and a 33% graduation rate, many students struggle to complete their programs and see meaningful income gains.
The school's flagship Liberal Arts and Sciences program produces graduates earning just $28,019 annually, which barely justifies even the modest investment. This earning level puts graduates at significant financial disadvantage in Wyoming's energy-driven economy, where technical skills typically command higher wages.
Your biggest risk at Western Wyoming is the 50% retention rate, meaning half of students leave before completing their degree. The low $9,000 median debt load provides some protection, but incomplete credentials offer little value in the job market. Only 17% of students receive financial aid, suggesting limited institutional support for struggling students.
This school works financially if you need extremely affordable college credits for transfer purposes or live locally with family support. The low cost makes it reasonable for exploring college without major financial commitment. However, if you need career training that leads to stable employment, Wyoming's technical colleges or four-year universities offer better earning potential.
The numbers suggest Western Wyoming functions more as an access point than a career launcher. You should have a clear transfer plan to a four-year institution or consider trade programs elsewhere if you want education that pays dividends in Wyoming's job market.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Western Wyoming Community College worth the cost compared to other schools?
With a net price of $8,420 per year and graduates earning $40,939 after 10 years, Western Wyoming Community College offers reasonable value for a two-year degree. The low median debt of $9,000 makes it financially accessible, though the 33% graduation rate suggests many students don't complete their programs.
What programs at Western Wyoming Community College have the best ROI?
The most popular programs at Western Wyoming Community College are Liberal Arts and General Studies, with graduates earning around $28,019. These earnings are below the national average for community college graduates, so students should consider transferring to complete a bachelor's degree for better long-term prospects.
How much debt do Western Wyoming Community College graduates typically have?
Western Wyoming Community College graduates have a median debt of $9,000, which is manageable compared to four-year institutions. The low cost and debt levels reduce financial risk, making it a safer option for students unsure about their career path.
Does Western Wyoming Community College provide good financial aid?
With a net price of $8,420 after aid, Western Wyoming Community College is affordable for most students. However, the low graduation rate of 33% means financial aid may not guarantee degree completion, so students need realistic academic plans.