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Colleges / LA / Lake Charles
SOWELA Technical Community College logo

SOWELA Technical Community College

Public Lake Charles, LA · Urban · Southeast · 80% data reported · Agent Insights
43%
Graduation Rate
$32,303
Earnings (10yr)
$7,525
Net Price
2,966
Enrollment

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Overview

SOWELA Technical Community College serves about 2,966 students and is an excellent fit for those looking to gain practical skills in fields like Construction Trades, Business & Marketing, Precision Production, Health Professions, and Humanities. What stands out here is the focus on hands-on training and immediate job readiness, catering to individuals who want to jump into the workforce quickly. With a graduation rate of 43%, it’s clear that while some students might face challenges, many find their footing and complete their programs.

After graduation, students see a median earnings of $32,303 within ten years. This income level suggests that graduates can find their place in the workforce and start building their lives. The affordability of attending SOWELA is another important factor, with a net price of $7,525 after aid, making it accessible for many. For those receiving Pell Grants, which is 46% of the student body, financial support can help ease the burden of college costs.

In practical terms, students who thrive here often come from diverse backgrounds and are motivated by the desire for practical skills that lead to immediate employment. While we don’t have specific figures on debt load, the low net price suggests that students can graduate with manageable financial obligations. Overall, SOWELA is a strong choice for those looking to gain a foothold in their careers without a hefty price tag.

Rankings

How SOWELA Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation43%Earnings 10yr$32KNet Price$8KRetention59%Pell Grant Rate46%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$7K$0-30K$7K$30-48K$8K$48-75K

Cost & Financial Aid

$4,305
In-State Tuition
$4,305
Out-of-State
$7,525
Avg Net Price
46%
Pell Grant Rate
0%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$7,439
Family Income $0–$30K
$6,864
Family Income $30K–$48K
$8,411
Family Income $48K–$75K

Graduate Outcomes

$32,044
6 Years After Entry
$32,061
8 Years
$32,303
10 Years
25%
Loan Repayment (3yr)
56%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$32,044 6yr $32,061 8yr $32,303 10yr

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

0.88
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
0.04
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
9.0%
Volunteering Rate
0.98
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Retention Rate 59%
Full-Time Faculty 64%
Faculty Salary (mo) $6,051
Diversity Index 0.54
First-Gen Students 51%

Top Programs

Construction Trades 18%
Business & Marketing 13%
Precision Production 7%
Health Professions 7%
Humanities 6%
Computer Science & IT 5%
Culinary & Personal Services 4%
Mechanic & Repair Tech 3%

Quick Facts

Setting Urban
Region Southeast
Accreditor Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Predominant Degree Certificate

Student Body

Female
58%
White
63%
Hispanic
5%
Black
23%
Asian
1%

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

Our methodology →