Taylor College
Ocala, FL 34470 — Private For-Profit
Value Score: 70/100 | ROI Score: 3 | Affordability Score: 90/100
Tuition (In-State): $14,580 | Out-of-State: $14,580
Graduation Rate: 50.0%
Median Earnings (10yr): $60,311 | Median Debt: $26,250
Student Body Size: 308 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 75.8% | Federal Loan Rate: 83.9%
Average Faculty Salary: $5,984/month
Tuition & Affordability Analysis
In-state tuition at Taylor College is $14,580 per year, which is 63% below the national average for private institutions.
Out-of-state students pay $14,580/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.
Estimated four-year tuition cost: $58,320 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).
What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income
The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Taylor College:
- Families earning $0–$30,000: $18,873/year
- Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $19,821/year
- Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $23,348/year
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
50.0% of students at Taylor College complete their degree, 19% below the national average. This is below average — prospective students should investigate support services and retention programs.
Graduates of Taylor College earn a median salary of $60,311 ten years after enrollment, 47% above the national average. This represents a $25,311/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $759,330 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.
The median student debt at graduation is $26,250, 22% above the national average. On a standard 10-year repayment plan at 5.5% interest, this translates to approximately $285/month, with a total repayment of $34,200 (including $7,950 in interest).
Debt-to-Earnings Ratio: 0.44x. This is an excellent ratio — graduates carry manageable debt relative to their earning power.
Breakeven Point: Based on the earnings premium over high school graduates, a degree from Taylor College pays for itself in approximately 3 years. This is an excellent return on investment.
Financial Aid Profile
75.8% of students at Taylor College receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 130% 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.
83.9% of students take federal loans, 78% above the national average. This high borrowing rate means most students need loans to attend. Factor loan payments into your decision carefully.
Average faculty salary: $5,984/month, 31% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Taylor College enrolls 308 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 63/100 (higher = more diverse). The campus has moderate diversity.
Student body composition: White 32%, Hispanic 10%, Black 51%, Asian 0%.
Taylor College: Small Private For-Profit Institution with High Affordability
- Taylor College: Launch Your Career in Central Florida
- Is Taylor College Worth the Investment? Analyzing Your ROI
- Beyond the Classroom: Real-World Outcomes at Taylor College
Report Card: Overall Grade C+
Taylor College receives an overall grade of C+ based on six dimensions:
- Academics: C-
- Value: D
- Outcomes: B
- Affordability: A+
College Analysis
Taylor College is a Private For-Profit institution in Ocala, FL with approximately 308 students. Taylor College has a graduation rate of 50%, slightly below the national average for private for-profit institutions. The median earnings 10 years after graduation are $60,311, which is above the national average for similar institutions. The college has a high affordability score of 90, indicating that it is relatively affordable compared to its peers.
The Verdict: Is Taylor College Worth It?
Taylor College presents a complex value proposition. With an in-state and out-of-state tuition of $14,580, and a median 10-year earning potential of $60,311, the initial financial picture appears somewhat favorable. However, the median debt of $26,250 is a significant factor. A direct comparison shows that the median earnings are roughly 2.3 times the total tuition cost, which is a decent ratio. The debt-to-earnings ratio is approximately 0.44, meaning a graduate would need to allocate about 44% of their median annual earnings to pay off their debt. If we assume a standard loan repayment period (e.g., 10 years), the monthly debt payment would be around $218.75. This is manageable against a median annual income of $60,311 (which translates to about $5,026 monthly before taxes). The ROI score of 3 suggests a moderate return. While the earnings are respectable, the debt load is substantial for a smaller institution. It's not a clear 'hidden gem' nor is it definitively 'overpriced' without knowing the specific program outcomes. The value hinges heavily on the specific career path and earning potential within that path. If graduates consistently secure well-paying jobs directly related to their field of study, the investment can be justified. However, the 50% graduation rate is a concern, implying that half of the students do not complete their programs, which would significantly diminish the return on investment for those individuals. Recommendation: Proceed with caution, thoroughly research program-specific job placement and salary data, and compare it rigorously against the total cost and debt incurred.
Return on Investment
Given the high tuition and median debt, the degree from Taylor College may not be as cost-effective as more affordable options with similar earning potential.
Debt Reality Check
Median student debt at Taylor College: $26,250. Monthly payment on a standard 10-year plan: $298/month. Total repaid: $35,760 ($9,510 in interest).
Breakeven vs high school diploma: 0.9 years. Debt burden: Manageable. Salary needed for comfortable repayment: $35,760.
Strengths
- Highly affordable tuition
- Strong earning potential
- Diverse student body
Weaknesses
- Lower-than-average graduation rate
- Limited academic resources compared to larger institutions
Academic Profile
Taylor College's academic profile is characterized by its commitment to vocational and career-focused education, a hallmark of private, for-profit institutions. While specific departmental strengths are best identified by exploring their program offerings, institutions like Taylor College typically excel in fields directly leading to in-demand professions. Expect strong programs in areas such as healthcare (nursing, medical assisting, diagnostic imaging), business and technology (information technology, accounting, business administration), and potentially skilled trades. Research opportunities, in the traditional sense of faculty-led, grant-funded projects, may be less prevalent compared to traditional universities. Instead, the focus is likely on applied learning, capstone projects, and internships that provide hands-on experience. Faculty quality is often a blend of experienced academics and industry professionals who bring real-world expertise into the classroom. While faculty salary data isn't available, the student-faculty ratio, though not provided, is likely to be relatively low given the small student population, allowing for more personalized attention. Taylor College may not offer extensive honors programs or traditional study abroad experiences, as the curriculum is tightly aligned with immediate career outcomes. Academic support resources are crucial in this model, likely including tutoring services, career counseling, resume workshops, and job placement assistance, all designed to ensure graduates are job-ready.
Financial Aid Guide for Taylor College
Pell Grant recipients: 75.8%. Students taking federal loans: 83.9%.
Navigating financial aid at Taylor College requires understanding its private, for-profit structure. While specific data on merit aid, need-based aid, and Pell Grant rates are not publicly detailed, prospective students should anticipate a significant reliance on federal student loans. The stated out-of-pocket tuition is $14,580 annually, but this is just the starting point. For students with demonstrated financial need, federal aid, including Pell Grants and federal student loans, will likely form the bulk of their aid package. Given the median debt of $26,250 upon graduation, it's clear that loans are a substantial component for many. Taylor College likely offers institutional aid in the form of scholarships, though these are often tied to specific programs or academic achievement rather than broad merit-based awards. Work-study opportunities might be available, providing students with on-campus employment to help offset living expenses. For families with incomes below $50,000, a combination of Pell Grants and federal loans could cover a significant portion of tuition, though living expenses will still need to be addressed. For higher-income families, the aid package will lean more heavily on federal loans, and scholarships will be critical. Negotiating aid at a for-profit institution like Taylor College can be challenging; their tuition structure is often set, and aid is primarily distributed through federal programs and limited institutional scholarships. It's crucial to complete the FAFSA early and thoroughly to maximize eligibility for all federal and state aid. Contacting the financial aid office directly to discuss specific circumstances and available institutional scholarships is highly recommended.
Hidden Costs at Taylor College
- Off-campus housing in Ocala can range from $800 to $1,500 per month for a shared apartment, depending on location and amenities.
- Meal plans, if offered or recommended for commuters, could add $200 to $400 per month for dining hall access or meal prep.
- Textbooks and course materials can easily cost $800 to $1,200 per academic year, with specialized program materials potentially higher.
- Student fees, often not included in tuition, might total $300 to $600 annually for technology, administrative, or lab access.
- Transportation costs, including gas, insurance, and vehicle maintenance for commuting students, could average $100 to $250 per month.
- Parking permits, if required for on-campus access, may range from $50 to $150 per semester.
- Health insurance, if not covered by a parent's plan, can add $2,000 to $4,000 annually.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Taylor College, a private for-profit institution in Ocala, FL, focuses on career-oriented programs, aiming to equip its 308 students for immediate entry into the workforce. While specific data on major employers actively recruiting from Taylor College is not publicly detailed, its curriculum often aligns with sectors experiencing consistent demand in Florida and nationally. Graduates are likely to find opportunities in healthcare support roles, administrative services, and potentially skilled trades, depending on the specific programs offered. Industries where alumni might cluster include healthcare facilities (e.g., hospitals like HCA Florida Ocala Health, AdventHealth Ocala), medical offices, and administrative departments within various businesses. For-profit institutions like Taylor College typically emphasize practical skills, which can lead to direct employment rather than extensive graduate school placement. Therefore, graduate school placement rates are generally not a primary outcome metric for this type of institution. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for smaller, career-focused colleges. Career services at Taylor College are expected to focus on job placement assistance, resume building, and interview preparation, acting as a crucial bridge to employment. Internship pipelines are likely developed through local business partnerships, providing students with hands-on experience in fields such as medical assisting, dental assisting, or administrative support. Geographic hiring patterns for Taylor College graduates would predominantly be within the Central Florida region, given the college's location and its focus on local workforce needs. Some graduates may also find opportunities in larger Florida metropolitan areas like Orlando or Tampa, particularly in healthcare and administrative sectors.
Campus Life & Culture at Taylor College
Taylor College serves a student body primarily focused on acquiring specific vocational skills for career advancement, often drawing students from the local Ocala area and surrounding Florida communities. The student population tends to be diverse in age and background, with many students seeking a career change or their first post-secondary credential. Students who thrive here are typically self-motivated, goal-oriented individuals who value practical education and direct pathways to employment.
Taylor College in Ocala, Florida, offers a focused and intimate campus experience, largely shaped by its private, for-profit nature and a student body of around 308. The 'vibe' here is decidedly career-oriented, with a strong emphasis on practical training and preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce. Social life isn't centered around sprawling quads or traditional residential colleges; instead, it's more about building professional networks and engaging in activities that directly complement academic pursuits. Student organizations tend to be program-specific, such as clubs for aspiring healthcare professionals or business students, fostering a sense of community among those with shared career goals. Given its size and focus, large-scale athletic programs or extensive Greek life are not defining features. Instead, students might find opportunities for intramural sports or community-based service projects. Dining is typically integrated into the campus facilities, offering convenient options for students who are often juggling classes, labs, and part-time work. Housing is generally not provided on campus, meaning most students commute or arrange their own off-campus living, often in apartments or shared housing in the Ocala area. This setup encourages students to be independent and self-reliant, mirroring the professional environments they will soon enter. The campus itself is designed for efficiency, with modern facilities geared towards vocational training. The overall atmosphere is one of purpose and direct engagement with the skills and knowledge needed for career success.
Campus Highlights
- Career-focused curriculum designed for immediate job placement.
- Small class sizes fostering personalized attention from instructors.
- Emphasis on practical, hands-on training and skill development.
- Direct connections to local industries for internships and job opportunities.
- Supportive environment for students transitioning into new career fields.
- Ocala location offering a balance of community living and access to Florida's attractions.
Location & Regional Advantages
Taylor College's location in Ocala, Florida, offers a mixed bag of geographic advantages for its students. Ocala itself is a mid-sized city with a growing economy, particularly strong in healthcare, logistics, and agriculture. This provides a local job market that can absorb graduates from career-focused programs, especially in healthcare support and administrative roles. The cost of living in Ocala is generally lower than in major Florida metropolitan areas like Orlando or Tampa, making it more affordable for students to manage expenses during and after their studies. Proximity to larger industry hubs is a key consideration; Ocala is roughly an hour's drive from Orlando, a major center for tourism, technology, and healthcare, and a similar distance from Tampa, another significant economic hub. This allows graduates to access a broader job market without necessarily relocating immediately. The quality of life in Ocala is characterized by a more relaxed pace, access to natural attractions like the Ocala National Forest, and a family-friendly environment. While generally considered safe, like any city, specific areas may vary. The weather is typical Florida subtropical, offering warm temperatures year-round, which is a draw for many. For career opportunities post-graduation, the local Ocala market offers immediate entry points, while the proximity to Orlando and Tampa provides a pathway to larger, more diverse employment landscapes, particularly in sectors where Taylor College graduates are likely to be trained.
How to Get Into Taylor College
Applying to Taylor College, a private for-profit institution with a small student body, generally involves a more direct admissions process focused on career readiness rather than highly competitive academic metrics. Since an admission rate is not provided, it's reasonable to infer that the focus is on ensuring applicants have the foundational skills and motivation for their chosen vocational programs. The admissions office likely values a clear demonstration of career goals and a commitment to completing the program. While SAT/ACT scores are not a factor, a high school diploma or GED is a prerequisite. Your application essay or personal statement should articulate why you've chosen Taylor College and your specific program, highlighting your passion for the field and how you envision using your education. Discussing any relevant work experience, volunteer activities, or personal circumstances that have shaped your career aspirations can be beneficial. Demonstrated interest isn't typically a formal policy at schools like this, but engaging with admissions counselors, attending information sessions, and asking thoughtful questions shows your seriousness. The timeline is generally flexible, but applying at least 2-3 months before the intended start date is advisable to allow ample time for financial aid processing and enrollment steps. Focus on showcasing your motivation and alignment with the career outcomes Taylor College promises.
How Taylor College Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: Keiser University (various FL campuses), Florida Technical College (various FL campuses), Ultimate Medical Academy (various FL campuses)
Advantages
- Potentially smaller class sizes due to lower overall student enrollment, allowing for more personalized attention.
- Stronger focus on specific vocational or allied health programs that may have high local demand.
- Location in Ocala offers a lower cost of living compared to larger metropolitan areas where some competitors might be situated.
Disadvantages
- Lower overall institutional recognition and alumni network compared to larger or more established universities.
- Limited program diversity compared to larger institutions, potentially restricting career options.
- For-profit status can sometimes carry a stigma or lead to different accreditation standards compared to non-profit or public institutions.
Best For
- Students seeking a higher graduation rate may want to consider other options.
- Prospective students should be aware of the lower-than-average graduation rate.
- International students may find the tuition costs comparable to other private for-profit institutions.
Avoid If
- Students looking for a more traditional academic experience with higher graduation rates may want to explore other options.
- Those seeking a lower tuition cost may find more affordable public institutions or community colleges more suitable.
Frequently Asked Questions about Taylor College
How much does it cost to attend Taylor College?
In-state tuition at Taylor College is $14,580 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $14,580 per year. The median student debt at graduation is $26,250.
What is the graduation rate at Taylor College?
Taylor College has a graduation rate of 50.0%.
How much do Taylor College graduates earn?
The median earnings for Taylor College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $60,311. With median debt of $26,250, graduates earn roughly 2.3x their debt level annually.
How big is Taylor College?
Taylor College has approximately 308 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Ocala, FL and is a Private For-Profit institution.
Is Taylor College worth the cost?
Taylor College has an ROI score of 3 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $14,580 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $60,311, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.
Where is Taylor College located?
Taylor College is located in Ocala, FL. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 308 students.
How much student debt do Taylor College graduates have?
The median student debt for Taylor College graduates is $26,250. With median earnings of $60,311 ten years after enrollment, graduates can expect a debt-to-income ratio of 44%.
Is Taylor College a good college?
Taylor College has a graduation rate of 50.0% and median post-graduation earnings of $60,311. 50% graduation rate, below national average
How does Taylor College compare to similar colleges?
High median earnings 10 years post-graduation While Taylor College offers high median earnings and is highly affordable, its graduation rate is lower than average.
What career prospects do Taylor College graduates have?
Graduates of Taylor College can expect to enter the workforce with strong earning potential, making it a good choice for those prioritizing immediate financial success.
What should prospective students know about Taylor College?
Taylor College is well-positioned in the market for affordable private for-profit institutions, offering a balance of affordability and earning potential.
What makes Taylor College stand out?
Highly affordable with a score of 90
What are the pros and cons of attending Taylor College?
Primarily serves a diverse student body with a majority being Black
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Visit Taylor College official website
View on College Scorecard (Dept. of Education)
Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.