Plaza College

Plaza College has a negative ROI score of -49, suggesting that the median earnings 10 years after entry may not sufficiently cover the median debt incurred at graduation.

The graduation rate at Plaza College is 65.4%.

The median earnings for Plaza College graduates 10 years after entry are $31,519.

The median debt at graduation for students from Plaza College is $20,751.

Plaza College has a small student body size of 984 students.

Plaza College has an admission rate of 30.0%, classifying it as a selective institution. This means that for every 100 applicants, approximately 30 are offered admission. Getting into Plaza College requires meeting specific academic criteria and demonstrating a commitment to the college's career-focused mission. Prospective students should ensure they have a strong high school academic record, including good grades in relevant subjects. Standardized test scores may be considered, though many for-profit institutions place a greater emphasis on high school GPA and potentially entrance exams specific to the college. It's advisable for applicants to thoroughly research the specific program requirements, as some may have prerequisites. Strong essays or personal statements can also play a role in the admissions decision, allowing applicants to articulate their career goals and why Plaza College is the right fit for them. Early application is often recommended to secure a spot, especially for popular programs. Prospective students should contact the admissions office directly for the most up-to-date information on application deadlines, required documents, and any specific academic benchmarks they aim to achieve.

Evaluating whether Plaza College is worth the money requires a direct cost-benefit analysis. The median debt for graduates is $20,751, and the median 10-year earnings are $31,519. This presents a significant financial challenge, as the earnings are only slightly higher than the debt incurred, and this is over a decade. The ROI score of -49 is a strong indicator that, on average, graduates do not financially benefit from their degree in the long term, and may struggle to repay their loans. The annual tuition of $15,450, if applied over a typical 2-year associate's degree program, would already exceed the median 10-year earnings. This suggests that the cost of education at Plaza College is high relative to the earning potential it unlocks. While the college offers career-focused training, the financial outcomes are concerning. It is difficult to recommend Plaza College as a good financial investment based on these metrics. Prospective students should explore alternative institutions or programs that offer a more favorable return on investment, or seek out specific programs at Plaza College that might have demonstrably higher earning potential than the reported median.

Plaza College offers programs primarily in healthcare, business, and legal studies, designed for direct entry into the workforce. Based on industry demand in the New York metropolitan area, programs in the healthcare sector are often strong choices. This includes fields like Medical Assisting, Medical Office Management, and Diagnostic Medical Sonography, which prepare students for roles in a consistently growing industry. The business programs, such as Business Administration and Accounting, can also lead to stable employment in administrative and support roles within various companies. For those interested in the legal field, the Paralegal Studies program can open doors to positions in law firms and legal departments. To determine the 'best' majors, prospective students should research current job market trends in NYC, focusing on roles that align with Plaza College's curriculum and offer competitive starting salaries and growth potential. It's also crucial to consider the median earnings data for specific programs if available, though this is not always publicly disclosed. Focusing on programs with clear career pathways and high demand in the local job market is advisable.

As a private for-profit institution with a strong career focus, Plaza College's student life is likely centered around academic achievement and career preparation rather than a traditional, expansive campus experience. With 984 students, the community is relatively small, fostering a more intimate environment. The campus is located in Forest Hills, Queens, offering students access to the amenities and cultural diversity of New York City, but the immediate campus environment may be more focused on academic facilities. Extracurricular activities might include student clubs related to specific career fields (e.g., a healthcare club, a business society), workshops on professional development, and networking events. Social life would likely involve students engaging with each other in academic settings, study groups, and potentially through organized college events or outings. Given its urban setting, students may also be heavily involved in internships and part-time work, which can shape their social schedules. The emphasis is typically on preparing students for the professional world, so student life activities often complement this goal, aiming to build professional networks and practical skills.

Plaza College provides financial aid to eligible students to help cover the cost of tuition and other educational expenses. As a private for-profit institution, a significant portion of its funding comes from federal student aid programs, including Pell Grants and federal student loans. Many students rely heavily on these forms of aid. The college also likely offers institutional scholarships or grants, though these may be limited compared to non-profit institutions. To determine eligibility and the amount of aid a student might receive, prospective students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Plaza College's financial aid office works with students to package aid, which typically includes a combination of grants (which do not need to be repaid), loans (which must be repaid), and potentially work-study opportunities. It is crucial for students to understand the terms of any loans offered, as the median debt of $20,751 suggests a substantial reliance on borrowing. Prospective students should request a detailed financial aid package and consult with the financial aid office to understand the full cost of attendance after aid and the long-term implications of student loan debt.

The median earnings for Plaza College graduates 10 years after enrollment are reported as $31,519. This figure represents the average across all programs and graduates, and actual salaries can vary significantly based on the specific major, individual performance, internship experience, and the job market at the time of graduation. Programs in high-demand fields like healthcare (e.g., Medical Assisting, Diagnostic Medical Sonography) may lead to higher starting salaries than administrative or support roles. Similarly, graduates in business or paralegal studies might see different earning trajectories. However, it's important to note that the median earnings of $31,519 are relatively low, especially for the New York City metropolitan area, and are considerably lower than the national average for college graduates. This suggests that many graduates may start in entry-level positions with modest salaries. To get a more precise expectation, prospective students should research average starting salaries for specific roles related to their intended major within the NYC area and compare this with the cost of their program and the potential debt they will incur.

Plaza College does not appear to offer on-campus housing or traditional dormitories. As a private for-profit institution located in an urban setting (Forest Hills, Queens), its focus is primarily on academic instruction and career services, rather than providing a comprehensive residential campus experience. Students attending Plaza College are typically expected to arrange their own housing. This means commuting from home, renting apartments independently or with roommates in the surrounding Queens area, or finding housing in other boroughs of New York City. The lack of on-campus housing is common for many urban-based colleges, particularly those that are smaller or have a strong commuter student population. Prospective students who require housing should research rental markets in Queens and surrounding areas, considering factors like commute time to campus, safety, and affordability. The absence of dorms means that students will need to factor in the costs and logistics of off-campus living into their overall college budget and planning.

Plaza College is primarily an institution focused on career-oriented education and direct workforce preparation, rather than a traditional research university. Its programs are designed to equip students with practical skills for immediate employment in fields such as healthcare, business, and legal support. Consequently, opportunities for extensive undergraduate research, akin to what is found at larger universities with dedicated research facilities and faculty pursuing advanced academic inquiry, are likely limited. While students may engage in research projects as part of their coursework or capstone projects, these are typically applied research focused on industry-specific problems rather than theoretical or foundational academic research. The faculty's primary role is often teaching and professional guidance, rather than leading large-scale research initiatives. Therefore, if a student's primary goal is to pursue in-depth academic research or prepare for a Ph.D. program, Plaza College may not be the most suitable choice. Its strengths lie in vocational training and career placement.

Plaza College competes in a landscape of private for-profit and some community colleges offering career-focused programs in the New York metropolitan area. Similar institutions include Berkeley College, LIM College (though more fashion-focused), and various campuses of Bryant & Stratton College. Compared to these peers, Plaza College's primary advantage lies in its specific program mix, with a notable emphasis on healthcare and legal support fields, which are robust in NYC. Its Forest Hills location offers a slightly more accessible cost of living than some Manhattan-based competitors. However, Plaza College faces significant disadvantages. Its median earnings are notably lower, and its ROI score is substantially negative compared to many similar institutions, suggesting a weaker financial return on investment. Furthermore, its brand recognition and alumni network may be less extensive than some of its more established for-profit or even some community college counterparts. While offering specialized training, the overall value proposition in terms of post-graduation financial outcomes appears less favorable than many alternatives.

Employer perception of a degree from Plaza College is likely tied to the specific program of study and the skills acquired. As a career-focused institution, employers in fields like healthcare administration, medical assisting, paralegal services, and business support likely view Plaza College graduates as having practical, job-ready skills. The college's emphasis on internships and career services aims to ensure graduates are prepared for entry-level roles. However, the perception can also be influenced by the institution's for-profit status and the overall median earnings of its graduates. Some employers may place a higher value on degrees from non-profit or more traditional universities, especially for roles requiring advanced analytical or theoretical knowledge. For roles where specific certifications or practical competencies are paramount, such as in allied health fields, employers are more likely to value the training and hands-on experience Plaza College provides. The brand value of Plaza College is likely strongest within the local New York City job market, particularly in sectors where its graduates are concentrated.