Precision Metal Working at Southern Careers Institute-San Antonio

Southern Careers Institute's precision metal working program delivers concerning financial outcomes that should give parents pause. With median earnings of just $25,077 one year after graduation, graduates earn about $11,000 less than the Texas state median for this field and rank in only the 25th percentile among Texas programs. This means three-quarters of similar programs in the state produce better-earning graduates.

The debt picture offers some relief—at $7,125, it's notably lower than both state and national medians, resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28. However, this advantage is overshadowed by the weak earning potential. Even four years out, graduates typically earn just $29,162, still well below what peers at stronger programs earn in their first year. The top Texas programs like Amarillo College ($48,263) and San Jacinto Community College ($42,512) produce graduates earning nearly twice as much.

While the 65% Pell grant rate indicates the school serves students who need affordable options, this program appears to be a poor investment even at its lower cost. Your child would likely achieve better financial outcomes at a community college offering the same credential, where earnings potential is significantly higher while costs remain affordable.