Sterling College
Sterling College — Earnings vs Cost (vs National Average)
Is Sterling College Worth It?
At a value score of 13/100, Sterling College is a below-average value relative to its cost. Graduates earn $30,573 — 43% below average — while paying $21,854/year. Consider alternatives with better earnings-to-cost ratios.
With a 2.9-year payback period, most graduates recoup their total cost of attendance relatively quickly.
A 38% graduation rate is a serious red flag — fewer than 4 in 10 students finish. Those who don't graduate may still carry student debt without the higher-earning credential to show for it.
Bottom line: consider whether the specific program you're interested in at Sterling College has outcomes that justify the cost — the institution-wide numbers suggest caution.
Best Programs at Sterling College
Program-level earnings data isn't available for Sterling College. When evaluating whether to attend, research outcomes for your specific major using the Department of Education's College Scorecard or ask the admissions office for placement rates.
As a general rule: STEM, nursing, accounting, and computer science programs tend to deliver the strongest ROI regardless of institution. Humanities and arts programs can still be worthwhile, but require more intentional career planning to achieve financial payoff.
Return on Investment
Estimated 4-Year Cost
Based on $21,854/yr net price × 4 years
Earnings Premium
vs. national average of $53,787/yr
Payback Period
Time to recoup the total cost through higher earnings
10-Year Net Gain
Median earnings over 10 years minus total cost of attendance
Similar Colleges in VT
Quick Facts
- Institution Type
- private
- Location
- Craftsbury Common, VT
- Student Body
- 50 students
- Admission Rate
- 67%
- Graduation Rate
- 38%
- Net Price (Annual)
- $21,854
- Median Earnings (10yr)
- $30,573