Central Pennsylvania Institute of Science and Technology

Life at CPI is lean and focused, with a 95% full-time retention rate (versus 75% for part-timers) underscoring the intensity of its programs. The campus—nestled in Pleasant Gap’s rolling hills—offers two landscaped courtyards and a central auditorium, but don’t expect a traditional college social scene. Reviews describe a ‘positive climate’ geared toward adult learners juggling work and studies, with cultural emphasis on vocational mastery. High school students from surrounding rural areas share spaces with career-changers, creating a mixed but purpose-driven community.

CPI’s 91% graduation rate for certificate programs crushes the national midpoint (69%), and its alumni median earnings of $47,037 (per College Scorecard) or $34,912 (per Research.com) outpace typical vocational-school outcomes. The LPN program’s strong local reputation feeds into central Pennsylvania’s healthcare workforce, while heavy equipment grads often land jobs with regional construction firms. Notably, the school’s outcomes data suggests a tight link between training and immediate employment—no frills, no detours.

With an average net price of $7,723 after aid, CPI is a bargain by any measure—67% of students receive grants averaging $7,021 annually. The sticker price for in-district students is $18,311, but the school’s financial aid office actively helps applicants navigate state and federal assistance programs. A net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. calculator on CPI’s website lets prospective students estimate costs transparently, reinforcing the institution’s pragmatic approach to affordability.

CPI is the antithesis of a bloated liberal-arts college—it’s a high-efficiency trade school where every dollar and credit hour translates directly into job readiness. The LPN program’s dominance reflects both local healthcare demand and the school’s agility in aligning training with employer needs. Combine that with graduation rates and earnings that outperform peer institutions, and you’ve got a model of vocational education that works. For rural Pennsylvanians seeking a reliable path to the middle class, CPI delivers without pretension.