At $6,355/yr net price, Yavapai College graduates earn $39,890/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $5,890/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $6,355 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $25,420 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $39,890/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$5,890/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 4.3 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 32.1% |
| 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 | $5,926/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $5,501/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $8,428/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $8,969/yr |
| $110,001+ | $8,297/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 | $59,180 | $19,682 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections. | Certificate | $47,260 | |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $45,500 | |
| Air Transportation. | Associate | $31,839 | |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations. | Associate | $28,960 | |
| Precision Systems Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $28,598 | |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. | Associate | $26,643 | $9,500 |
The Risk Factor
32.1% of students at Yavapai 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
Yavapai College delivers solid financial returns for specific career paths while presenting serious risks for others. The nursing program stands out with graduates earning $59,180 annually, making the $19,682 in debt worthwhile for a field with strong job security in Arizona's growing healthcare market.
Criminal justice and allied health programs also generate respectable earnings above $45,000, aligning well with regional demand in Prescott and surrounding areas. However, the business administration program produces concerning results with graduates earning just $28,960 annually, barely above what many associate degree holders make without the four-year time investment.
The 32% graduation rate creates substantial completion risk. Nearly seven out of ten students leave without finishing their degree, often carrying debt with no credential to show for it. The low 19% financial aid participation rate suggests you'll likely pay most costs out of pocket or through loans.
Your best financial bet involves the healthcare programs if you can handle the academic rigor and clinical requirements. The nursing program particularly offers strong ROI despite higher debt levels. Criminal justice also provides decent prospects given Arizona's law enforcement needs.
Avoid this school if you're considering business administration or programs not listed among the top earners. The weak graduation rate makes Yavapai risky for students who struggled in high school or lack strong study habits. Consider this school primarily if you're committed to healthcare careers, live locally to minimize additional costs, or plan to transfer after completing general education requirements elsewhere for less money.
The relatively low median debt of $9,000 helps, but only if you actually graduate and enter a field that pays well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Yavapai College worth the money?
Yavapai College offers good value with a low net price of $6,355 per year and median debt of only $9,000. However, the 32% graduation rate is concerning, and average earnings of $39,890 after 10 years are modest.
Which Yavapai College programs have the best return on investment?
Nursing programs at Yavapai College provide the strongest ROI, with graduates earning around $59,180 annually. Criminal justice and allied health programs also offer decent returns at $47,260 and $45,500 respectively, while business and air transportation programs pay significantly less.
How much debt do Yavapai College graduates typically have?
Yavapai College graduates have a median debt of $9,000, which is relatively low compared to many colleges. The low cost and minimal debt make it financially manageable, even if earning potential varies widely by program.
What are the risks of attending Yavapai College?
The biggest risk is the low 32% graduation rate, meaning most students don't complete their programs. Students in lower-paying programs like business may struggle to see strong financial returns despite the affordable tuition.