Set in Louisiana's River Parishes, River Parishes Community College has a reputation for practical learning that leads somewhere. Students find strong foundations for university transfer alongside career-minded coursework in areas like technology, health, business, and the skilled trades. Classrooms and labs feel current, with study spaces, a library hub, tutoring, advising, and counselors who help you figure out the next step without the runaround.
Campus life is relaxed and welcoming, with student clubs, service projects, and low-key events that fit busy schedules. And when it's time to unplug, there are nearby green spaces, local eats, and plenty of South Louisiana culture. Career preparation runs through everything here: resume help, employer visits, and connections to regional industries known for hiring. The vibe is down-to-earth and community-first, shaped by students balancing work, family, and ambition. It's a place that quietly opens doors.
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at River Parishes Community College (RPCC) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in Louisiana. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
How to use this guide:
Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in Louisiana vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.
Eng. Technologies (12)
Most Graduates (50.5%)
Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support
15.0404
Instrumentation Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostBac, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers engaged in developing control and measurement systems and procedures. Includes instruction in instrumentation design and maintenance, calibration, design and production testing and scheduling, automated equipment functions, applications to specific industrial tasks, and report preparation.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
17-3024 |
Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians |
$75,710
|
$68,100
|
-$7,610 (-10.1%)
|
17-3028 |
Calibration Technologists and Technicians |
$71,080
|
$93,980
|
+$22,900 (+32.2%)
|
49-9069 |
Precision Instrument and Equipment Repairers, All Other |
$70,420
|
$71,240
|
+$820 (+1.2%)
|
15.0699
Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians, Other.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostBac, AltPostMSc)
Any instructional program in industrial production technologies not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
17-3026 |
Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians |
$69,780
|
$137,010
|
+$67,230 (+96.3%)
|
15.1001
Construction Engineering Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers, engineering contractors and other professionals engaged in the construction of buildings and related structures. Includes instruction in basic structural engineering principles and construction techniques, building site inspection, site supervision, construction personnel supervision, plan and specification interpretation, supply logistics and procurement, applicable building codes, and report preparation.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
11-9021 |
Construction Managers |
$119,660
|
$103,260
|
-$16,400 (-13.7%)
|
13-1051 |
Cost Estimators |
$83,160
|
$64,690
|
-$18,470 (-22.2%)
|
17-3022 |
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians |
$68,450
|
$75,270
|
+$6,820 (+10%)
|
15.1301
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to generally apply technical skills to create working drawings and computer simulations for a variety of applications. Includes instruction in specification interpretation, dimensioning techniques, drafting calculations, material estimation, technical communications, computer applications, and interpersonal communications.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
17-3011 |
Architectural and Civil Drafters |
$68,860
|
$92,630
|
+$23,770 (+34.5%)
|
17-3012 |
Electrical and Electronics Drafters |
$77,960
|
$57,080
|
-$20,880 (-26.8%)
|
17-3013 |
Mechanical Drafters |
$74,040
|
$80,910
|
+$6,870 (+9.3%)
|
17-3019 |
Drafters, All Other |
$66,530
|
$60,730
|
-$5,800 (-8.7%)
|
Health (8)
Most Graduates (21.7%)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
51.0707
Health Information/Medical Records Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of health information administrators and other professionals, to construct medical records and clinical databases, perform manipulations on retrieved data, control the security and quality of records, and supervise data entry and technical maintenance personnel. Includes instruction in clinical and biomedical science data and information requirements, database management, data coding and validation, information security, quality control, health information content and structure, medical business procedures, and legal requirements.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
29-2072 |
Medical Records Specialists |
$55,970
|
$43,910
|
-$12,060 (-21.5%)
|
29-9021 |
Health Information Technologists and Medical Registrars |
$73,410
|
$61,630
|
-$11,780 (-16%)
|
51.0801
Medical/Clinical Assistant.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of physicians, to provide medical office administrative services and perform clinical duties including patient intake and care, routine diagnostic and recording procedures, pre-examination and examination assistance, and the administration of medications and first aid. Includes instruction in basic anatomy and physiology; medical terminology; medical law and ethics; patient psychology and communications; medical office procedures; and clinical diagnostic, examination, testing, and treatment procedures.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
25-1071 |
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary |
$137,900
|
$113,210
|
-$24,690 (-17.9%)
|
31-9092 |
Medical Assistants |
$44,720
|
$30,360
|
-$14,360 (-32.1%)
|
51.2601
Health Aide.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to provide routine care and assistance to patients under the direct supervision of other health care professionals, and/or to perform routine maintenance and general assistance in health care facilities and laboratories.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
31-1131 |
Nursing Assistants |
$41,270
|
$30,020
|
-$11,250 (-27.3%)
|
31-1133 |
Psychiatric Aides |
$43,610
|
$34,100
|
-$9,510 (-21.8%)
|
51.3901
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training.
(Cert<1y)
A program that prepares individuals to assist in providing general nursing care under the direction of a registered nurse, physician or dentist. Includes instruction in taking patient vital signs, applying sterile dressings, patient health education, and assistance with examinations and treatment.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
29-2061 |
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses |
$64,150
|
$52,280
|
-$11,870 (-18.5%)
|
51.3902
Nursing Assistant/Aide and Patient Care Assistant/Aide.
(AltPostBac)
A program that prepares individuals to perform routine nursing-related services to patients in hospitals or long-term care facilities, under the training and supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
31-1131 |
Nursing Assistants |
$41,270
|
$30,020
|
-$11,250 (-27.3%)
|
Liberal Arts (3)
Most Graduates (17.9%)
Liberal Arts Education, General Studies and Humanities
24.0102
General Studies.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
An undifferentiated program that includes instruction in the general arts, general science, or unstructured studies.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
25-1199 |
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other |
$94,470
|
$72,420
|
-$22,050 (-23.3%)
|
24.0199
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities, Other.
(Cert<2y)
Any single instructional program in liberal arts and sciences, general studies and humanities not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
99-9999 |
NO MATCH |
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
Mechanics (5)
Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance
47.0201
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair, install, service and maintain the operating condition of heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Includes instruction in diagnostic techniques, the use of testing equipment and the principles of mechanics, electricity, and electronics as they relate to the repair of heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
49-9021 |
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers |
$62,690
|
$47,690
|
-$15,000 (-23.9%)
|
47.0303
Industrial Mechanics and Maintenance Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to repair and maintain industrial machinery and equipment such as cranes, pumps, engines and motors, pneumatic tools, conveyor systems, production machinery, marine deck machinery, and steam propulsion, refinery, and pipeline-distribution systems.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
47-4021 |
Elevator and Escalator Installers and Repairers |
$104,860
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
49-9012 |
Control and Valve Installers and Repairers, Except Mechanical Door |
$75,970
|
$47,800
|
-$28,170 (-37.1%)
|
49-9041 |
Industrial Machinery Mechanics |
$67,160
|
$61,770
|
-$5,390 (-8%)
|
49-9043 |
Maintenance Workers, Machinery |
$61,820
|
$57,500
|
-$4,320 (-7%)
|
49-9044 |
Millwrights |
$68,640
|
$62,540
|
-$6,100 (-8.9%)
|
49-9045 |
Refractory Materials Repairers, Except Brickmasons |
$61,480
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
49-9081 |
Wind Turbine Service Technicians |
$67,580
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
Business (4)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
52.0401
Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science, General.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that generally prepares individuals to perform the duties of administrative assistants and/or secretaries and stenographers. Includes instruction in business communications, principles of business law, word processing and data entry, office machines operation and maintenance, office procedures, public relations, secretarial accounting, filing systems and records management, and report preparation.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
43-1011 |
First-Line Supervisors of Office and Administrative Support Workers |
$71,560
|
$53,530
|
-$18,030 (-25.2%)
|
43-4161 |
Human Resources Assistants, Except Payroll and Timekeeping |
$50,950
|
$44,560
|
-$6,390 (-12.5%)
|
43-6011 |
Executive Secretaries and Executive Administrative Assistants |
$77,060
|
$51,290
|
-$25,770 (-33.4%)
|
43-6014 |
Secretaries and Administrative Assistants, Except Legal, Medical, and Executive |
$47,640
|
$36,510
|
-$11,130 (-23.4%)
|
52.0411
Customer Service Support/Call Center/Teleservice Operation.
(AltPostBac)
A program that prepares individuals to assist customers with inquiries and problems in frontline call centers, help desks, teleservice centers, and online. Includes instruction in user interfaces and user behavior, principles of hardware and software systems operation, customer interaction skills, telephone and e-mailing skills, data entry, and database and Internet searching and retrieval.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
43-4051 |
Customer Service Representatives |
$45,380
|
$33,690
|
-$11,690 (-25.8%)
|
43-4151 |
Order Clerks |
$46,270
|
$35,810
|
-$10,460 (-22.6%)
|
Production (3)
Manufacturing Technology, Quality Control and Industrial Arts
48.0508
Welding Technology/Welder.
(Cert<1y, AltPostBac, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to join or cut metal surfaces. Includes instruction in arc welding, resistance welding, brazing and soldering, cutting, high-energy beam welding and cutting, solid state welding, ferrous and non-ferrous materials, oxidation-reduction reactions, welding metallurgy, welding processes and heat treating, structural design, safety, and applicable codes and standards.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
51-4121 |
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers |
$55,100
|
$52,300
|
-$2,800 (-5.1%)
|
51-4122 |
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders |
$49,270
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
Computer & IT (3)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.0101
Computer and Information Sciences, General.
(AltPostBac)
A general program that focuses on computing, computer science, and information science and systems. Such programs are undifferentiated as to title and content and are not to be confused with specific programs in computer science, information science, or related support services.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
11-3021 |
Computer and Information Systems Managers |
$187,990
|
$121,500
|
-$66,490 (-35.4%)
|
15-1211 |
Computer Systems Analysts |
$111,960
|
$96,020
|
-$15,940 (-14.2%)
|
15-1221 |
Computer and Information Research Scientists |
$152,310
|
$109,640
|
-$42,670 (-28%)
|
15-1241 |
Computer Network Architects |
$135,890
|
$100,470
|
-$35,420 (-26.1%)
|
15-1242 |
Database Administrators |
$107,440
|
$88,810
|
-$18,630 (-17.3%)
|
15-1243 |
Database Architects |
$142,620
|
$130,830
|
-$11,790 (-8.3%)
|
15-1244 |
Network and Computer Systems Administrators |
$101,190
|
$78,680
|
-$22,510 (-22.2%)
|
15-1253 |
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers |
$110,260
|
$60,900
|
-$49,360 (-44.8%)
|
15-1255 |
Web and Digital Interface Designers |
$111,450
|
$75,330
|
-$36,120 (-32.4%)
|
15-1299 |
Computer Occupations, All Other |
$116,700
|
$67,020
|
-$49,680 (-42.6%)
|
25-1021 |
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary |
$105,830
|
$112,390
|
+$6,560 (+6.2%)
|
11.0902
Cloud Computing.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to design and implement enterprise software systems that rely on distributed computing and service-oriented architecture, including databases, web services, cloud computing, and mobile apps. Includes instruction in data management, distributed and cloud computing, enterprise software architecture, enterprise and cloud security, mobile systems and applications, server administration, and web development.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
15-1221 |
Computer and Information Research Scientists |
$152,310
|
$109,640
|
-$42,670 (-28%)
|
15-1231 |
Computer Network Support Specialists |
$79,610
|
$56,700
|
-$22,910 (-28.8%)
|
15-1241 |
Computer Network Architects |
$135,890
|
$100,470
|
-$35,420 (-26.1%)
|
15-1243 |
Database Architects |
$142,620
|
$130,830
|
-$11,790 (-8.3%)
|
15-1251 |
Computer Programmers |
$103,640
|
$77,900
|
-$25,740 (-24.8%)
|
15-1252 |
Software Developers |
$144,570
|
$108,660
|
-$35,910 (-24.8%)
|
25-1021 |
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary |
$105,830
|
$112,390
|
+$6,560 (+6.2%)
|
11.1001
Network and System Administration/Administrator.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to manage the computer operations and control the system configurations emanating from a specific site or network hub. Includes instruction in computer hardware and software and applications; local area (LAN) and wide area (WAN) networking; principles of information systems security; disk space and traffic load monitoring; data backup; resource allocation; and setup and takedown procedures.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
11-3021 |
Computer and Information Systems Managers |
$187,990
|
$121,500
|
-$66,490 (-35.4%)
|
15-1212 |
Information Security Analysts |
$127,730
|
$101,780
|
-$25,950 (-20.3%)
|
15-1231 |
Computer Network Support Specialists |
$79,610
|
$56,700
|
-$22,910 (-28.8%)
|
15-1241 |
Computer Network Architects |
$135,890
|
$100,470
|
-$35,420 (-26.1%)
|
15-1244 |
Network and Computer Systems Administrators |
$101,190
|
$78,680
|
-$22,510 (-22.2%)
|
Education (1)
Educational Sciences, Teaching Methods and Pedagogy
13.0101
Education, General.
(Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on the general theory and practice of learning and teaching, the basic principles of educational psychology, the art of teaching, the planning and administration of educational activities, school safety and health issues, and the social foundations of education.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
25-1081 |
Education Teachers, Postsecondary |
$78,500
|
$99,710
|
+$21,210 (+27%)
|
25-9042 |
Teaching Assistants, Preschool, Elementary, Middle, and Secondary School, Except Special Education |
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
25-9043 |
Teaching Assistants, Special Education |
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
Security & Safety (2)
Emergency Management, Law Enforcement and Public Safety
43.0104
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y)
A program that focuses on the criminal justice system, its organizational components and processes, and its legal and public policy contexts. Includes instruction in criminal law and policy, police and correctional systems organization, the administration of justice and the judiciary, and public attitudes regarding criminal justice issues.
Graduate Career Earnings in Louisiana
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Louisiana Avg |
LA vs US |
19-4099 |
Life, Physical, and Social Science Technicians, All Other |
$64,640
|
$52,880
|
-$11,760 (-18.2%)
|
25-1111 |
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary |
$84,820
|
$89,850
|
+$5,030 (+5.9%)
|
33-1011 |
First-Line Supervisors of Correctional Officers |
$82,260
|
$69,960
|
-$12,300 (-15%)
|
33-1012 |
First-Line Supervisors of Police and Detectives |
$110,990
|
$61,250
|
-$49,740 (-44.8%)
|
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about River Parishes Community College (RPCC)
How much does it cost to attend River Parishes Community College (RPCC)?
The annual tuition at River Parishes Community College (RPCC) is $4,079 for in-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $5,379 for in-state students.
Additional costs include
room and board $11,337 (off-campus) and books and supplies $1,300.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does River Parishes Community College offer?
River Parishes Community College (RPCC) offers 45 academic programs across 9 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Associate's, Other Award.
Most popular program areas include:
- Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support (12 programs)
- Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice (8 programs)
- Automotive Technology, Equipment Repair and Maintenance (5 programs)
- Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship (4 programs)
- Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity (3 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at River Parishes Community College?
River Parishes Community College (RPCC) provides financial aid to 13% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $5,292 and average loans of $5,407.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $5,764
- State/Local grants: $2,874
- Institutional grants: $1,168
- Federal loans: $5,407
The university supports 241 students with grants and 86 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for River Parishes Community College graduates?
River Parishes Community College (RPCC) graduates earn a median salary of $34,205 after 6 years and $37,848 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $21,138 (25th percentile) to $60,780 (75th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.