Precision Metal Working at Southern Careers Institute-Pharr

This precision metalworking program delivers concerning value despite its affordable price tag. While the $7,125 debt load is reasonable and below both state and national medians, the earnings outcomes are deeply problematic—graduates earn just $25,077 in their first year, placing this program in the bottom 5% nationally and bottom quarter in Texas. Even after four years, earnings only reach $29,162, still well below what other Texas programs deliver immediately after graduation.

The numbers tell a stark story when compared to alternatives within Texas. Top-performing programs like Amarillo College ($48,263) and San Jacinto Community College ($42,512) produce graduates earning nearly double what this program delivers. Even the Texas state median of $30,105 exceeds this program's four-year earnings. With 76% of students receiving Pell grants, this suggests the program primarily serves students who can least afford poor employment outcomes.

While the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28 appears manageable, earning $25,000 in a skilled trade is problematic regardless of debt levels. Given that 70 other Texas schools offer this same credential—many with dramatically better outcomes—this program represents a poor investment. Your child would be better served applying to virtually any other precision metalworking program in Texas, where they'd likely earn $10,000-20,000 more annually right out of school.