Merced, CA · Private University
Is Merced College Worth It?
ROI analysis based on real earnings and cost data
Key Numbers
10-Year Earnings
$37,815
median, 10 years after enrollment
In-State Tuition
$1,194
per year
Out-of-State Tuition
$8,154
per year
Total 4-Year Cost
$32,616
tuition only (4 years)
ROI Ratio
4.64x
earnings ÷ annual tuition
Payback Period
11.6 yrs
years to recoup total cost
Median Debt
$4,188
at graduation
Avg Net Price
$4,260
after aid & scholarships
Earnings vs. Annual Cost
10-year median earnings compared to annual tuition
Merced College graduates earn $7,185 less than the national median of workers with any education level.
What You'd Actually Pay
Average net price after grants and scholarships, by family income
Source: IPEDS net price data. Actual costs vary based on individual financial circumstances.
The Bottom Line
Merced College stands out as a strong financial investment among U.S. colleges. Graduates earn $37,815 10 years after starting, $7,185 below the national median of $45,000. At the current earnings trajectory, it takes approximately 11.6 years to recover the total cost of attendance.
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Earnings data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Tuition data from IPEDS. ROI calculations are for informational purposes only and reflect median outcomes.