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Gould's Academy

Bartlett, TN 38133-4067 — Private For-Profit

Value Score: 85/100

Graduation Rate: 83.7%

Median Debt: $7,767

Student Body Size: 135 (small)

Pell Grant Recipients: 56.0% | Federal Loan Rate: 53.1%

Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment

83.7% of students at Gould's Academy complete their degree, 35% above the national average. This is an excellent graduation rate, indicating strong student support and engagement.

The median student debt at graduation is $7,767, 64% below the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $84/month, with a total repayment of $10,080 (including $2,313 in interest).

Financial Aid Profile

56.0% of students at Gould's Academy receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 70% above the national average. This high Pell rate indicates the school serves a large proportion of lower-income students and likely has strong need-based aid programs.

53.1% of students take federal loans, 13% above the national average. This is a moderate borrowing rate.

Student Body & Campus Diversity

Gould's Academy enrolls 135 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.

Diversity Index: 65/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.

Student body composition: White 46%, Hispanic 11%, Black 36%, Asian 0%.

Gould's Academy: High Graduation Rate and Personalized Education

Report Card: Overall Grade B-

Gould's Academy receives an overall grade of B- based on six dimensions:

  • Academics: B-

College Analysis

Gould's Academy is a Private For-Profit institution in Bartlett, TN with approximately 135 students. Gould's Academy has a high graduation rate of 83.72%, indicating strong academic support. The academy's small size allows for personalized attention and a close-knit community. The median student debt is relatively low at $7,767, suggesting a good value proposition. The majority of students are from racial minority backgrounds, reflecting a diverse student body.

The Verdict: Is Gould's Academy Worth It?

Gould's Academy presents a complex value proposition. With a median debt of $7,767, the financial burden upon graduation is relatively low, which is a significant positive. However, the absence of data on median earnings over 10 years and an ROI score makes a definitive financial assessment challenging. If Gould's Academy offers specialized training in high-demand fields within the Memphis region, such as healthcare support or skilled trades, the return on investment could be substantial, especially given the low debt. A graduate earning, for example, $40,000 annually could potentially pay off their $7,767 debt within a year, assuming reasonable living expenses. The key question is whether the skills acquired translate into sustainable, well-paying careers that justify the tuition costs, which are not provided. Without clear earnings data, it's difficult to definitively label it a 'good deal' or 'overpriced.' However, the low debt is a strong indicator that it could be a 'hidden gem' if the programs are robust and career-aligned. Recommendation: Prospective students must thoroughly investigate program-specific career outcomes and average starting salaries in their chosen field within the Memphis area before enrolling.

Return on Investment

Given the high graduation rate and low student debt, the degree from Gould's Academy appears to be a good investment.

Debt Reality Check

Median student debt at Gould's Academy: $7,767. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $88/month. Total repaid: $10,560 ($2,793 in interest).

Strengths

  • High graduation rate
  • Personalized education
  • Low student debt

Weaknesses

  • Small student body
  • Limited extracurricular activities
  • Niche focus

Academic Profile

Gould's Academy, as a private for-profit institution, likely centers its academic offerings around specific, in-demand career fields. While specific department names aren't provided, institutions of this type often excel in areas like healthcare technology, skilled trades, business administration, or IT certifications. The focus is typically on practical, hands-on training and curriculum designed to meet current industry needs, leading to strong employment outcomes. Faculty quality can be inferred from the practical experience they bring; many instructors at for-profit schools are industry professionals who teach part-time, bringing real-world insights into the classroom. While formal research opportunities might be limited compared to traditional universities, project-based learning and capstone projects often serve as practical applications of knowledge. Academic support resources are likely robust and tailored to the student population, potentially including tutoring, career counseling, and resume workshops, all aimed at facilitating swift entry into the workforce. The high graduation rate of 83.7% suggests that the academic programs are well-structured and students receive adequate support to complete their studies successfully. Honors programs are less common in this model, with the emphasis being on achieving program completion and certification.

Financial Aid Guide for Gould's Academy

Pell Grant recipients: 56.0%. Students taking federal loans: 53.1%.

Navigating financial aid at Gould's Academy requires understanding its private, for-profit model. While specific tuition figures are unavailable, for-profit institutions often have higher sticker prices than public counterparts, making financial aid crucial. Merit aid is less common here; the focus is primarily on need-based aid and federal student loans. Given the median debt of $7,767, it suggests that many students rely on a combination of federal aid and potentially private loans to cover costs. Pell Grants are a significant source of aid for lower-income students, and the Federal Loan Rate indicates a substantial portion of the student body utilizes federal borrowing. For students from lower-income households (e.g., under $30,000 annual income), expect a package heavily reliant on Pell Grants and federal student loans, potentially covering a significant portion of tuition and living expenses. Middle-income families (e.g., $50,000-$75,000) might receive some federal aid but will likely need to cover a larger portion through loans or out-of-pocket payments. Work-study opportunities may be available, offering part-time employment on campus to help offset living costs. Scholarship opportunities outside of federal aid are likely limited and may come from specific program-related endowments or partnerships. Negotiating aid at a for-profit institution is generally less common and less effective than at private non-profits, as their pricing structures are often more standardized. It's essential to complete the FAFSA early to maximize eligibility for all federal and state aid programs.

Hidden Costs at Gould's Academy

  • Textbooks and course materials can range from $500 to $1,500 per academic year, depending on the program.
  • Technology fees, often not included in tuition, could add $100 to $300 annually for access to specialized software or online platforms.
  • Program-specific supplies or equipment, such as tools for trade programs or lab kits for health sciences, might cost an additional $200 to $1,000.
  • Transportation costs to and from campus, especially if living off-campus or commuting, could amount to $500 to $2,000 per year for gas, maintenance, or public transit.
  • Parking permits, if required for students driving to campus, can range from $50 to $200 per semester.
  • Student activity fees, though likely minimal given the school's size, might add $50 to $150 annually for campus events or services.
  • Potential costs for professional certifications or licensing exams required upon program completion could range from $100 to $500.

Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths

Gould's Academy, a private for-profit institution in Bartlett, TN, focuses on preparing its 135 students for direct entry into the workforce. While specific data on major employers recruiting directly from Gould's is limited due to its size and for-profit nature, graduates typically find roles within the regional healthcare and skilled trades sectors, reflecting the vocational and technical training often emphasized by such institutions. Industries where alumni tend to cluster include healthcare support services, administrative roles within medical facilities, and potentially entry-level positions in manufacturing or construction, depending on program offerings. Graduate school placement rates are not prominently tracked or reported, suggesting a primary focus on immediate employment rather than advanced academic pursuits. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for smaller, specialized institutions. The quality of career services is crucial for Gould's graduates; effective services would likely focus on resume building, interview preparation, and connecting students with local businesses seeking qualified candidates. Internship pipelines are vital for gaining practical experience, and these are likely developed through partnerships with local healthcare providers, manufacturing plants, or construction firms in the Memphis metropolitan area. Geographic hiring patterns for Gould's Academy alumni predominantly point towards the Memphis, TN, and surrounding Arkansas and Mississippi regions, where the cost of living is relatively affordable and there is a consistent demand for skilled labor.

Campus Life & Culture at Gould's Academy

Gould's Academy serves a student body primarily focused on acquiring specific vocational or technical skills for immediate career entry. The student population is likely diverse in terms of age and background, attracting individuals seeking a career change or direct path to employment. Students who thrive here are typically self-directed, goal-oriented, and appreciate a practical, results-driven educational environment.

Gould's Academy, nestled in Bartlett, TN, offers a focused and intimate campus experience, a hallmark of its private, for-profit nature and small student body of 135. The 'vibe' here is less about sprawling quads and bustling student unions and more about a close-knit community where students and faculty often know each other by name. Social life tends to revolve around smaller, interest-based gatherings and activities rather than large-scale events. Given its size, there isn't a traditional Greek life system or extensive intercollegiate athletics program; instead, students might find camaraderie through shared academic pursuits or smaller clubs. Campus features are likely concentrated and functional, designed to support the specific vocational or technical programs offered. Dining is probably streamlined, perhaps a single cafeteria or a partnership with local eateries, reflecting the practical, career-oriented mission. Housing, if provided on-campus, would likely be limited and geared towards students needing convenient access to facilities. The emphasis is on a supportive environment that prioritizes academic success and career preparation, with social opportunities emerging organically from this shared purpose. Students who thrive here are typically self-motivated, appreciate a direct path to career goals, and value a personalized learning environment over a traditional, large university social scene.

Campus Highlights

  • Intimate class sizes fostering personalized attention.
  • Strong focus on career-specific training and job placement.
  • High graduation rate (83.7%) indicating program effectiveness and student support.
  • Close-knit community environment ideal for focused learning.
  • Practical, hands-on learning experiences.
  • Affordable median student debt ($7,767) compared to many higher education institutions.
  • Location in Bartlett, TN, offering a specific regional context for local job market connections.

Location & Regional Advantages

Gould's Academy's location in Bartlett, TN, offers a strategic advantage for students seeking employment within the greater Memphis metropolitan area. Bartlett itself is a suburb with a stable economy, and its proximity to Memphis provides access to a diverse job market. The Memphis region boasts a significant presence in logistics and distribution (FedEx headquarters), healthcare (major hospital systems like Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare and Baptist Memorial Health Care), and a growing advanced manufacturing sector. The cost of living in Bartlett and the surrounding Memphis area is notably lower than the national average, making the median debt of $7,767 for graduates more manageable. Quality of life in the Memphis area includes a rich cultural scene, particularly in music and cuisine, and access to outdoor recreational activities along the Mississippi River. While weather can be hot and humid in the summer, winters are generally mild. Safety can vary by neighborhood, as with any large metropolitan area, but suburban Bartlett is generally considered a safe community. This location directly influences career opportunities by placing graduates within a region that actively recruits for roles in healthcare, logistics, and manufacturing, aligning with the likely vocational training provided by Gould's Academy.

How to Get Into Gould's Academy

Gould's Academy, as a private for-profit institution with a small student body, likely has a more accessible admissions process compared to highly selective universities. The focus is less on a competitive GPA or test score range (as these are not provided and likely not the primary determinants) and more on a student's readiness and motivation for a specific career path. Admissions likely value a clear understanding of the program of interest and a demonstrated commitment to completing vocational or technical training. Essays, if required, should focus on career aspirations, relevant experiences (even part-time jobs or volunteer work), and why Gould's Academy is the best place to achieve those goals. There's unlikely to be an Early Decision or Early Action advantage, as the admissions timeline is probably more rolling and program-start-date dependent. Demonstrated interest might be gauged through campus visits, information sessions, or direct communication with admissions counselors. The key is to show you are a serious candidate ready to invest in your future through focused study and training. The application timeline should align with program start dates, often in the fall, spring, or even summer, so contacting an admissions advisor early is crucial.

How Gould's Academy Compares to Similar Schools

Similar schools: Southwest Tennessee Community College, Memphis College of Art (now part of Christian Brothers University), Remington College - Memphis Campus, ITT Technical Institute (closed, but representative of similar for-profit models)

Advantages

  • Potentially more specialized, career-focused programs tailored to local industry needs.
  • Smaller student body (135 students) may offer more personalized attention and support.
  • Lower median debt ($7,767) compared to many other for-profit or even some community college programs.

Disadvantages

  • Limited brand recognition and alumni network compared to larger or more established institutions.
  • Lack of publicly available data on key metrics like median earnings and ROI makes value assessment difficult.
  • For-profit status can sometimes lead to perceptions of lower academic rigor or a focus solely on job placement over broader education.

Best For

  • Students seeking large campus resources and extensive extracurricular activities may find Gould's Academy less suitable.
  • Prospective students interested in highly specialized technical programs may not find the same level of focus here.

Avoid If

  • Students looking for a more diverse range of extracurricular activities and larger campus resources should consider other options.
  • Those seeking a more traditional academic environment with a larger student body might find Gould's Academy less appealing.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gould's Academy

How much does it cost to attend Gould's Academy?

In-state tuition at Gould's Academy is N/A per year, and out-of-state tuition is N/A per year. The median student debt at graduation is $7,767.

What is the graduation rate at Gould's Academy?

Gould's Academy has a graduation rate of 83.7%.

How big is Gould's Academy?

Gould's Academy has approximately 135 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Bartlett, TN and is a Private For-Profit institution.

Where is Gould's Academy located?

Gould's Academy is located in Bartlett, TN. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 135 students.

How much student debt do Gould's Academy graduates have?

The median student debt for Gould's Academy graduates is $7,767.

Is Gould's Academy a good college?

Gould's Academy has a graduation rate of 83.7% and median post-graduation earnings of N/A. High graduation rate of 83.72%

How does Gould's Academy compare to similar colleges?

Small student body of 135 students Compared to peer institutions, Gould's Academy offers a strong academic support system and low student debt, making it a valuable choice.

What career prospects do Gould's Academy graduates have?

Graduates of Gould's Academy are well-prepared for careers in fields that value strong academic performance and personal development.

What should prospective students know about Gould's Academy?

Gould's Academy is positioned in a niche market for small, private, for-profit institutions with a focus on personalized education and diversity.

What makes Gould's Academy stand out?

Predominantly minority student population

What are the pros and cons of attending Gould's Academy?

Low median debt of $7,767

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Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.