At $6,573/yr net price, Wor-Wic Community College graduates earn $36,748/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $2,748/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $6,573 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $26,292 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $36,748/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$2,748/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 9.6 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 27.1% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $7,828 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $5,870/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $6,210/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $7,560/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $9,702/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 | $56,579 | $11,250 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Certificate | $52,941 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $47,260 | |
| Accounting and Related Services. | Associate | $33,993 | |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Associate | $28,212 | |
| Computer Systems Analysis. | Associate | $27,669 | |
| Business Operations Support and Assistant Services. | Associate | $25,194 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $24,164 | $5,250 |
| Hospitality Administration/Management. | Associate | $22,999 | |
| Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. | Associate | $20,140 |
The Risk Factor
27.1% of students at Wor-Wic 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
Wor-Wic Community College delivers solid financial returns for students who complete targeted career programs, but the school's 27% graduation rate creates significant risk for those who don't finish their degrees.
The nursing program stands out as the clear financial winner, with graduates earning $56,579 annually. Even with higher debt of $11,250, nursing students see strong returns given the strong healthcare job market on Maryland's Eastern Shore. Criminal justice and allied health programs also perform well, with earnings in the $47,000-$53,000 range that justify the investment.
Accounting presents a mixed picture at $33,993 in median earnings. While this exceeds the overall school median, you could earn similar wages in many retail management positions without the time and cost of college. General studies and liberal arts programs show weaker financial outcomes.
Your biggest risk at Wor-Wic is not finishing. The low graduation rate means many students accumulate debt without earning credentials. If you're uncertain about your major or study habits, consider starting part-time while working to test your commitment.
The school works best financially if you're local to the Salisbury area and targeting healthcare, criminal justice, or skilled trades. The $6,573 net price makes it affordable for career switching or skill upgrades. Commuter students save on housing costs that would inflate expenses at four-year schools.
With 40% of students receiving financial aid and relatively low debt loads, Wor-Wic offers accessible pathways to middle-class careers. Focus on programs with clear local job demand and complete your degree to maximize your investment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wor-Wic Community College worth the cost?
Wor-Wic offers good value with low costs at $6,573 per year and minimal debt of $7,828. However, the 27% graduation rate is concerning, and median earnings of $36,748 after 10 years are below average for college graduates.
What are the best paying programs at Wor-Wic Community College?
Nursing programs provide the strongest return with graduates earning around $56,579 annually. Criminal justice and allied health programs also offer decent prospects, while accounting graduates earn about $34,000.
How much debt do Wor-Wic Community College graduates have?
Graduates who borrow have a median debt of $7,828, which is manageable compared to four-year schools. The low annual cost of $6,573 helps keep borrowing minimal for most students.
Why is Wor-Wic Community College's graduation rate so low?
Only 27% of students graduate, which is below the national community college average. This suggests many students either transfer to four-year schools, leave for work, or struggle to complete their programs.