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Colleges / CA / Merced
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Merced College

Public Merced, CA · Urban · Far West · 73% data reported · Agent Insights
32%
Graduation Rate
$37,815
Earnings (10yr)
$5,040
Net Price
10,001
Enrollment

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Overview

Merced College serves over 10,000 students, making it a substantial option for those seeking a community college experience in California. With a net price of just $5,040, it stands out as an affordable choice for students looking to manage their education costs while pursuing their degrees.

The earnings of graduates ten years after enrollment average $37,815. This figure suggests a solid return on investment, particularly for students from low-income backgrounds, as 38% of the student body receives Pell Grants. While the graduation rate sits at 32%, the college’s focus on key programs like Humanities, Health Professions, and Psychology may help students find their paths and enhance their earning potential.

Students who thrive at Merced College often appreciate a supportive environment that emphasizes practical skills and community engagement. With a diverse range of programs in demand, graduates can enter a variety of fields, which may lead to a stable career trajectory. The college prioritizes accessibility and affordability, making it a viable option for many students aiming for upward mobility.

How Merced Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation32%Earnings 10yr$38KNet Price$5KRetention63%Pell Grant Rate38%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$4K$0-30K$5K$30-48K$6K$48-75K$11K$110K+

Cost & Financial Aid

$1,200
In-State Tuition
$8,520
Out-of-State
$5,040
Avg Net Price
38%
Pell Grant Rate
1%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$4,155
Family Income $0–$30K
$4,862
Family Income $30K–$48K
$5,562
Family Income $48K–$75K
$10,902
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$31,468
6 Years After Entry
$34,933
8 Years
$37,815
10 Years
37%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$31,468 6yr $34,933 8yr $37,815 10yr

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

0.88
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
0.02
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
3.4%
Volunteering Rate
0.97
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Retention Rate 63%
Full-Time Faculty 36%
Faculty Salary (mo) $10,419
Diversity Index 0.52
First-Gen Students 59%

Top Programs

Humanities 26%
Health Professions 14%
Psychology 11%
Social Sciences 10%
Business & Marketing 9%
Precision Production 5%
Mechanic & Repair Tech 4%
Criminal Justice 2%

Quick Facts

Setting Urban
Region Far West
Accreditor Western Association of Schools and Colleges Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
Predominant Degree Associate's
Hispanic-Serving Yes

Student Body

Female
57%
White
15%
Hispanic
67%
Black
4%
Asian
7%

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

Our methodology →