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Best Value Engineering-Related Technologies Colleges

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Nicholls State University in Louisiana delivers the highest engineering technology earnings at $73,446 annually, yet costs students just $12,091 net. This remarkable return on investment reflects the Gulf Coast's growing demand for technical professionals in petrochemical, manufacturing, and marine industries. California State University-Fresno offers the lowest net cost at $6,480 while still producing graduates earning $67,101. The 20 most affordable engineering technology programs span from $6,480 to $27,704, with public institutions dominating the value market. Engineering technicians and specialists support America's infrastructure across power generation, telecommunications, and manufacturing sectors. Universities in energy-rich regions like Louisiana, Alaska, and Texas connect students directly to high-paying industrial employers. Graduation rates vary significantly from 23.60% at Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico to 57.80% at Everglades University, suggesting program structure and student support systems matter as much as cost. The data reveals that location often trumps prestige when maximizing career earnings in technical fields.
33
Programs
$6,351 – $27,704
Net Price Range
$55,051
Avg. Program Earnings
48.8%
Avg. Graduation Rate

33 Engineering-Related Technologies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $6,480 $67,101 $6,980 54.8% 95.4%
2 $12,091 $73,446 $8,173 54.3% 98.4%
3 $13,780 $65,332 $7,566 28.9% 65.3%
4 $14,981 $57,318 $12,799 48.2% 82.9%
5 $14,488 $44,933 $8,862 52.7% 81.7%
6 $12,684 $33,987 $5,274 47.0% 54.4%
7 $17,324 $43,240 $8,356 38.3%
8 $27,704 $20,768 57.8% 70.4%
9 $16,972 $5,786 48.1% 67.9%
10 $16,338 $9,810 23.6%
11 $7,455 $5,354 50.6% 54.0%
12 $13,869 $9,792 46.8% 94.8%
13 $8,463 $6,270 40.7%
14 $15,137 $9,748 33.7% 88.0%
15 $15,794 $9,950 49.9% 85.3%
16 $18,268 $11,060 29.4% 83.9%
17 $16,391 $12,687 59.1% 92.6%
18 $18,292 $12,859 87.7% 52.7%
19 $7,113 $5,400 20.4%
20 $8,463 $8,419 44.0% 72.8%
21 $6,935 $2,336 31.4%
22 $6,747 $8,147 52.2% 78.1%
23 $16,496 $19,022 73.1% 66.0%
24 $7,523 $3,855 51.5%
25 $14,485 $10,117 46.9% 95.3%
26 $17,185 $29,778 51.1% 65.0%
27 $12,202 $13,630 47.9% 87.9%
28 $18,045 $12,606 56.4% 94.0%
29 $22,115 $28,750 29.2% 57.7%
30 $6,351 $6,381 91.5% 23.4%
31 $14,013 $8,868 43.3%
32 $13,085 $7,754 55.1% 69.5%
33 $15,960 $13,626 65.9% 86.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains Nicholls State University's strong earning outcomes for engineering technology graduates?

Nicholls State graduates earn $73,446 annually, the highest among all programs analyzed. The university sits in Louisiana's industrial corridor where petrochemical plants, refineries, and offshore drilling operations create sustained demand for engineering technicians. With 98.43% acceptance rate and reasonable costs, the program attracts students who complete internships at major employers like Shell, ExxonMobil, and Dow Chemical. Regional industry partnerships provide direct pathways to high-paying positions immediately after graduation.

How do public university costs compare to private institutions for engineering technology programs?

Public universities dominate the most affordable options, with California State-Fresno at $6,480 net cost and University of Puerto Rico-Ponce at $7,455. The single private institution, Everglades University, costs $27,704 net, more than four times typical public school expenses. However, Everglades achieves a 57.80% graduation rate, suggesting smaller class sizes and additional support may justify higher costs. Most public programs maintain strong industry connections without premium pricing.

Does geographic location significantly impact engineering technology career earnings?

Regional job markets create substantial earning variations among graduates. Louisiana's Nicholls State ($73,446) and California's Fresno State ($67,101) benefit from energy and technology sectors. Alaska graduates earn $65,332 despite the state's remote location, reflecting oil industry demand and cost-of-living adjustments. Puerto Rico programs show lower earnings of $33,987, though cost of living differences may offset this gap. Industrial clusters in specific regions consistently produce higher graduate salaries.

Is graduation rate a reliable indicator of program quality in engineering technology?

Graduation rates range dramatically from 23.60% to 57.80% across these affordable programs. Universidad Politecnica de Puerto Rico's low rate may reflect challenging coursework or student preparation gaps. Everglades University achieves the highest rate at 57.80% despite being the most expensive option. California State-Fresno combines strong earnings potential with a solid 54.80% graduation rate. Students should examine both completion rates and post-graduation employment statistics when evaluating programs.

Where do engineering technology graduates typically find employment after completing these programs?

Manufacturing, utilities, telecommunications, and construction companies actively recruit engineering technology graduates. Louisiana graduates often join petrochemical facilities, while Alaska alumni work in oil extraction and pipeline operations. California programs feed into aerospace, electronics, and renewable energy sectors throughout Silicon Valley and Southern California. Many graduates work as engineering technicians, quality control specialists, or project coordinators earning between $43,240 and $73,446 annually. Government agencies and consulting firms also provide career opportunities across all regions.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.