MCC named No. 18 in nation for return on investment

Middlesex Community College has been named one of the 2021 Best Online Associate Degrees.

According to a new report by Onlineu, Middlesex ranks as No. 18 in the country for Highest Return on Investment for students. With flexible course options and a variety of resources and services available, MCC helps students get their start or get back on their feet.

A recent report by Emsi — a labor market analytics firm — shows that in 2018-2019, MCC students paid $28.6 million to cover costs of tuition, fees, supplies and interest on their loans. Taking into account the amount of money they would have made working versus going to school, students who choose Middlesex earn on average $5.70 more for every dollar — a total of $324.5 million in increased earnings and a rate of return of 20.9 percent.

The Financial Aid Office guides students toward their best financial options to save thousands on tuition costs, get more for their money and reach their goals faster. In addition to offering personalized counseling and payment plans, the department also help students apply for grants, scholarships, work studies and loans.

To help students maintain and develop healthy financial habits, the college’s Financial Wellness Department offers coaching, knowledge and resources, including igrad, a free online platform providing 24/7 access to financial tools.

To gain long-term financial and professional success, MCC’S Career Development Office helps students enter the workforce. By establishing relationships with local businesses and organizations, the department provides students with access to the best networking, job and internship opportunities available.

Throughout the pandemic, the department has transitioned to online services, a process described as seamless by Catherine Cosgrove, coordinator of career planning and placement, and Karen James, assistant director of career planning and Placement.