At $16,767/yr net price, White Mountains Community College graduates earn $35,037/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $1,037/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $16,767 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $67,068 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $35,037/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$1,037/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 64.7 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 60.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $11,000 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $15,090/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $20,182/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $20,388/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $20,388/yr |
The Risk Factor
60.0% of students at White Mountains Community College graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 40% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
White Mountains Community College offers a mixed financial picture with moderate costs but limited earning potential. Your net price of $16,767 annually is reasonable for New Hampshire, but median earnings of $35,037 ten years after graduation puts you well below state averages.
The school's strongest financial advantage is its low debt burden. Graduating with just $11,000 in median debt means you can pay off loans within a few years even on entry-level salaries. The 60% graduation rate also beats many community college benchmarks.
Career outcomes depend heavily on your program choice. Healthcare programs like nursing and medical assisting typically lead to stable employment in Berlin's medical facilities and across rural New Hampshire. Trade programs in areas like automotive technology or construction align well with regional job demand. Liberal arts and general studies programs offer less clear career paths in this rural market.
Your biggest financial risk is geographic limitation. Berlin's isolated location and small job market may force you to relocate for better opportunities, potentially negating the low-cost advantage. The tourism and paper mill industries that anchor the local economy offer limited career growth.
This school makes financial sense if you plan to stay in northern New Hampshire and enter healthcare or skilled trades. You should look elsewhere if you want broader career options or higher earning potential. The low aid percentage (36% receive assistance) suggests limited need-based support, but in-state tuition keeps costs manageable for most New Hampshire residents.
Your best strategy is choosing a career-focused program with clear local job prospects rather than general education courses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is White Mountains Community College worth the cost?
With graduates earning $35,037 ten years after enrollment and a net price of $16,767 annually, White Mountains Community College offers modest financial returns. The low median debt of $11,000 reduces financial risk, but career earnings remain below national averages for college graduates.
What is the return on investment for White Mountains Community College?
White Mountains Community College graduates see limited financial gains, with median earnings of $35,037 after ten years. The affordable tuition and low debt burden of $11,000 help minimize financial risk, though income potential stays relatively low.
Do White Mountains Community College graduates struggle with student debt?
White Mountains Community College graduates typically finish with manageable debt of $11,000, well below national averages. However, with median earnings of $35,037 ten years out, some graduates may still find debt payments challenging relative to their income.
Which programs at White Mountains Community College have the best job prospects?
Healthcare and skilled trade programs typically offer the strongest job prospects at White Mountains Community College, given regional demand in New Hampshire. The 60% graduation rate suggests students should carefully evaluate program completion requirements before enrolling.