William R Moore College of Technology
Memphis, TN 38104-7240 — Private Nonprofit
Value Score: 75/100 | ROI Score: -17 | Affordability Score: 75/100
Tuition (In-State): $9,723 | Out-of-State: $9,723
Graduation Rate: 48.8%
Median Earnings (10yr): $32,194
Student Body Size: 366 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 35.4% | Federal Loan Rate: 0.0%
Average Faculty Salary: $5,354/month
Tuition & Affordability Analysis
In-state tuition at William R Moore College of Technology is $9,723 per year, which is 75% below the national average for private institutions.
Out-of-state students pay $9,723/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: $38,892 (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 William R Moore College of Technology:
- Families earning $0–$30,000: $15,026/year
- Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $14,155/year
- Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $13,276/year
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
48.8% of students at William R Moore College of Technology complete their degree, 21% below the national average. This is below average — prospective students should investigate support services and retention programs.
Graduates of William R Moore College of Technology earn a median salary of $32,194 ten years after enrollment, 21% below the national average.
Financial Aid Profile
35.4% of students at William R Moore College of Technology receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 7% above the national average. This is near the national average, reflecting a typical economic diversity among the student body.
0.0% of students take federal loans, 100% below the national average. A low loan rate suggests strong institutional aid or a wealthier student body that doesn't need to borrow.
Average faculty salary: $5,354/month, 39% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
William R Moore College of Technology enrolls 366 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 72/100 (higher = more diverse). William R Moore College of Technology has a highly diverse student body with strong representation across multiple racial and ethnic groups.
Student body composition: White 30%, Hispanic 23%, Black 37%, Asian 5%.
William R Moore College of Technology: Moderate Value with Diverse Student Body
- William R. Moore College of Technology: A Deep Dive into Technical Careers and Post-Graduation Realities
- Is Your Investment Worth It? Analyzing the ROI of a William R. Moore College of Technology Education
- Beyond the Classroom: Exploring Career Pathways and Opportunities for William R. Moore College of Technology Graduates
Report Card: Overall Grade C-
William R Moore College of Technology receives an overall grade of C- based on six dimensions:
- Academics: D
- Value: D
- Outcomes: D
- Affordability: A+
College Analysis
William R Moore College of Technology is a Private Nonprofit institution in Memphis, TN with approximately 366 students. The college has a graduation rate of 48.8%, slightly below the national average for similar institutions. Median earnings 10 years after graduation are $32,194, indicating a moderate return on investment. The college is affordable, with an affordability score of 75, making it a good value for students. The college has a diverse student body, with a significant percentage of black and Hispanic students.
The Verdict: Is William R Moore College of Technology Worth It?
William R. Moore College of Technology presents a challenging value proposition. With a median earnings figure of $32,194 after 10 years and a reported ROI score of -17, the financial return on investment appears significantly low. The tuition, while seemingly modest at $9,723 for both in-state and out-of-state students, becomes a considerable cost when weighed against the median earnings. Without specific data on median debt, it's difficult to calculate a precise debt payoff timeline, but even with minimal debt, the earnings are not robust enough to suggest a quick return. The graduation rate of 48.8% also raises concerns about program completion and the effectiveness of student support. Compared to the cost of education, the long-term earning potential seems insufficient to justify the investment for many students. It is not a good deal, and while it offers specialized technical training, the financial outcomes suggest it is overpriced for the value delivered. A clear recommendation is to carefully consider alternative pathways for acquiring similar technical skills that may offer better financial returns or to thoroughly investigate the specific job placement success rates for the intended program of study.
Return on Investment
While the degree from William R Moore College of Technology is affordable and offers a moderate return on investment, the graduation rate and limited extracurricular activities may be factors to consider.
Strengths
- Focus on technology education
- Affordable tuition
- Diverse student body
Weaknesses
- Moderate graduation rate
- Limited extracurricular activities due to small size
- Moderate return on investment
Academic Profile
William R. Moore College of Technology excels in providing specialized technical education, preparing students for high-demand careers in skilled trades and technology. While specific department rankings aren't readily available, the college's strength lies in its focused curriculum designed for practical application. Programs likely to be prominent include those in areas such as Automotive Technology, HVAC, Welding, Electrical Technology, and potentially Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) or Information Technology support. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on training, equipping students with the practical skills employers seek. Faculty quality can be inferred from the college's mission to provide industry-relevant education; instructors are likely to be experienced professionals with significant real-world expertise in their respective fields, bringing practical insights into the classroom. Research opportunities may be less about theoretical exploration and more about applied projects and problem-solving within specific technical domains, often tied to industry partnerships. Academic support resources would likely focus on tutoring in technical subjects, career counseling, and resume building to ensure graduates are job-ready. Given the college's size and vocational focus, a formal honors program might not be a central feature, but exceptional students may be recognized through advanced project work or industry certifications. Study abroad opportunities are unlikely given the specialized, career-focused nature of the institution.
Financial Aid Guide for William R Moore College of Technology
Pell Grant recipients: 35.4%. Students taking federal loans: 0.0%.
Navigating financial aid at William R. Moore College of Technology requires understanding its commitment to making technical education accessible. As a private nonprofit institution, it likely offers a mix of federal, state, and institutional aid. For prospective students, the first step is completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine eligibility for federal Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study opportunities. Given the tuition of $9,723, students from lower-income backgrounds may qualify for significant Pell Grant assistance, potentially covering a substantial portion of tuition. For instance, a student with a Pell Grant eligibility of $6,000 would only need to cover the remaining $3,723 plus living expenses. Institutional aid, often in the form of grants or scholarships, may also be available. These are typically awarded based on a combination of academic merit and financial need. While specific scholarship programs aren't detailed, prospective students should inquire directly with the admissions and financial aid offices about any available scholarships specifically for their chosen program of study. Work-study programs can provide part-time employment opportunities on or near campus, allowing students to earn money to help cover living expenses and educational costs. Typical aid packages will vary widely based on individual financial circumstances, but for students demonstrating high need, a combination of Pell Grants, federal loans, and institutional grants could significantly reduce the out-of-pocket cost. Negotiating aid at a smaller, specialized institution like Moore is generally less common than at larger universities, as aid packages are often formula-driven based on established criteria. However, presenting a compelling case of extenuating financial circumstances to the financial aid office might be considered.
Hidden Costs at William R Moore College of Technology
- Textbooks and course materials can range from $800 to $1,500 per academic year, depending on the technical program and specific course requirements.
- Tools and equipment specific to technical trades (e.g., welding gear, automotive diagnostic tools) can add an upfront cost of $500 to $2,000 or more.
- Lab fees and program-specific material fees can add an estimated $200 to $500 per semester.
- Transportation costs for commuting from home or off-campus housing to campus can amount to $50 to $200 per month, depending on distance and vehicle expenses.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as safety glasses, gloves, and specialized clothing may cost $100 to $300 annually.
- Student activity fees, though likely minimal, could add $50 to $100 per year.
- Potential costs for industry certifications or licensing exams required for program completion or job placement can range from $100 to $500.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
William R. Moore College of Technology, a specialized institution in Memphis, TN, focuses on technical and vocational training, which shapes its alumni outcomes. Graduates typically enter skilled trades and technical fields, with common employers including local manufacturing firms, construction companies, automotive repair shops, and electrical contractors. While specific major employer recruitment data is not publicly detailed, companies like International Paper, FedEx (which has a massive hub in Memphis), and various regional construction firms often seek candidates with the practical skills taught at Moore Tech. Alumni tend to cluster in industries such as advanced manufacturing, transportation and logistics, building trades, and automotive services. Given its vocational focus, graduate school placement rates are generally low, as most students aim for direct entry into the workforce. Notable alumni are typically recognized within their specific trades or local business communities rather than on a national scale. The college's career services likely focus on job placement assistance, resume building, and interview preparation tailored to these technical roles. Internship pipelines are crucial, often facilitated through partnerships with local businesses that provide hands-on experience and potential job offers. Geographic hiring patterns show a strong concentration in the Memphis metropolitan area and surrounding regions in Tennessee, Arkansas, and Mississippi, reflecting the local demand for skilled technicians.
Campus Life & Culture at William R Moore College of Technology
The student body at William R. Moore College of Technology is comprised of individuals seeking practical, career-focused education, often with a strong interest in skilled trades and technology. Students are typically local to the Memphis area, drawn by the college's specialized offerings and affordability. The ideal student is motivated, possesses a strong work ethic, and is eager to acquire tangible skills for immediate employment.
William R. Moore College of Technology, though small with just over 300 students, cultivates a close-knit and focused community. The 'vibe' here is decidedly career-oriented, with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and preparing students for immediate entry into the workforce. Social life isn't centered around a sprawling campus with traditional dorms; instead, it's more about building professional networks and engaging in activities directly related to students' chosen technical fields. Student organizations are likely to be highly specialized, perhaps a student chapter of a professional engineering society, a welding club, or an automotive technology group. Given its size and focus, large-scale athletic programs or a bustling Greek life scene are not characteristic of Moore. Instead, expect a more intimate social environment where students connect through shared academic interests and future career aspirations. Housing and dining are not provided on-campus, meaning students typically live in the surrounding Memphis area, commuting to campus. This fosters a sense of independence and requires students to be proactive in building their social circles, often within their academic departments or through external community involvement. The campus itself is more of a learning and training facility than a traditional residential campus, so the social scene is organically built around shared experiences in labs, workshops, and classrooms. Expect a professional atmosphere during the day, with opportunities for camaraderie and networking extending beyond formal instruction.
Campus Highlights
- Highly specialized technical programs designed for direct workforce entry.
- Emphasis on hands-on learning and practical skill development.
- Experienced instructors with real-world industry expertise.
- Close-knit community fostering professional networking opportunities.
- Strong ties to local industries for potential internships and job placement.
- Affordable tuition compared to many private institutions.
- Focus on career readiness and immediate employability upon graduation.
Location & Regional Advantages
William R. Moore College of Technology's location in Memphis, TN, offers a mixed bag of advantages for its students. Memphis is a significant logistics and transportation hub, boasting a large presence of companies like FedEx and numerous distribution centers, which creates demand for graduates with skills in areas like electrical, HVAC, and automotive technology relevant to maintaining this infrastructure. The cost of living in Memphis is notably lower than the national average, making the overall financial burden of attending and living post-graduation more manageable. Proximity to industry hubs is strong within the logistics and manufacturing sectors, but less so for cutting-edge tech or corporate headquarters. Quality of life in Memphis is characterized by a rich cultural heritage, particularly in music, and a vibrant food scene, though it faces challenges with crime rates in certain areas. The weather is humid subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters. Safety is a concern that prospective students and their families should research thoroughly, as Memphis has historically struggled with higher crime statistics compared to national averages. This location directly impacts career opportunities by providing a solid base for entry-level technical jobs, particularly in industries that are well-established in the Mid-South region, but may offer fewer opportunities in rapidly evolving, high-tech fields compared to larger metropolitan areas.
How to Get Into William R Moore College of Technology
Applying to William R. Moore College of Technology is a straightforward process geared towards individuals passionate about technical careers. Given its specialized nature and likely open admission policy (as indicated by the N/A for admission rate), the focus is less on highly competitive academic metrics and more on a student's genuine interest and aptitude for the technical fields offered. The admissions office likely values a clear demonstration of interest in a specific trade or technology, a willingness to learn hands-on skills, and a commitment to completing a program that leads to employment. While GPA and test scores are not primary hurdles, a solid foundation in basic math and English is beneficial. Essays, if required, should focus on career aspirations, explaining why a particular technical field is appealing and how Moore College can help achieve those goals. Early application is always recommended to ensure program availability and to allow ample time for financial aid processing. The timeline should involve submitting the application, any required documentation (like high school transcripts), and the FAFSA well in advance of the desired start date, ideally several months prior.
How William R Moore College of Technology Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: Southwest Tennessee Community College, Memphis College of Art (now part of Christian Brothers University), Pinnacle Career Institute, Remington College
Advantages
- Specialized focus on technology and trades, potentially offering deeper expertise in niche areas.
- Smaller student body allows for more personalized attention and potentially stronger faculty-student relationships.
- Lower tuition compared to many four-year private institutions.
Disadvantages
- Significantly lower median earnings compared to many community colleges and vocational schools.
- Lower graduation rate suggests potential challenges with student retention and program completion.
- Limited national recognition and employer brand value compared to larger or more established institutions.
Best For
- Students looking for a larger campus with more extracurricular activities may find the small size limiting.
- Those seeking a more traditional liberal arts education may not find the focus on technology sufficient.
- Students from out-of-state may find the cost of living in Memphis to be a significant factor in their decision.
Avoid If
- Students who are looking for a more comprehensive general education may want to consider larger institutions with a broader curriculum.
- Those with a preference for urban or suburban settings may find the college's location in Memphis to be less than ideal.
Frequently Asked Questions about William R Moore College of Technology
How much does it cost to attend William R Moore College of Technology?
In-state tuition at William R Moore College of Technology is $9,723 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $9,723 per year.
What is the graduation rate at William R Moore College of Technology?
William R Moore College of Technology has a graduation rate of 48.8%.
How much do William R Moore College of Technology graduates earn?
The median earnings for William R Moore College of Technology graduates 10 years after enrollment is $32,194.
How big is William R Moore College of Technology?
William R Moore College of Technology has approximately 366 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Memphis, TN and is a Private Nonprofit institution.
Is William R Moore College of Technology worth the cost?
William R Moore College of Technology has an ROI score of -17 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $9,723 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $32,194, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.
Where is William R Moore College of Technology located?
William R Moore College of Technology is located in Memphis, TN. It is a Private Nonprofit institution with approximately 366 students.
Is William R Moore College of Technology a good college?
William R Moore College of Technology has a graduation rate of 48.8% and median post-graduation earnings of $32,194. The college has a small student population, which may offer more personalized attention.
How does William R Moore College of Technology compare to similar colleges?
The tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students, making it accessible to a wider range of students. Compared to peer institutions, William R Moore College of Technology offers a moderate return on investment with a diverse student body and affordable tuition.
What career prospects do William R Moore College of Technology graduates have?
Graduates of William R Moore College of Technology are well-positioned for careers in the growing technology sector.
What should prospective students know about William R Moore College of Technology?
William R Moore College of Technology is well-suited for students seeking a technology-focused education in a diverse and affordable environment.
What makes William R Moore College of Technology stand out?
The college focuses on technology, which is a growing field with increasing job opportunities.
What are the pros and cons of attending William R Moore College of Technology?
The college's location in Memphis provides access to a variety of career opportunities.
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- Southwest Tennessee Community College
- Memphis College of Art (now part of Christian Brothers University)
- Pinnacle Career Institute
- Remington College
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Visit William R Moore College of Technology 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.