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Best Value Mechanical Engineering Colleges in Alabama

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

Auburn University graduates in Mechanical Engineering earn $68,778 annually, the highest among Alabama's seven programs, while Alabama A&M offers the lowest net cost at $14,559. This $18,338 cost spread reflects different value propositions across the state's public universities. Alabama's aerospace sector, anchored by Airbus in Mobile and NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, creates strong demand for mechanical engineers throughout the region.
7
Programs
$14,559 – $32,977
Net Price Range
$63,251
Avg. Program Earnings
59.4%
Avg. Graduation Rate

7 Mechanical Engineering Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $15,142 $66,240 $9,676 52.6% 65.4%
2 $14,559 $52,107 $10,024 28.7% 68.4%
3 $17,727 $59,253 $8,832 62.4% 86.7%
4 $19,880 $63,997 $11,770 61.9% 78.1%
5 $22,150 $65,281 $11,900 73.7% 80.1%
6 $23,897 $68,778 $12,536 79.2% 43.7%
7 $32,977 $67,101 $23,440 57.1% 29.7%

Frequently Asked Questions

What accounts for Auburn University's higher earnings despite costing $9,338 more than Alabama A&M?

Auburn graduates earn $16,671 more annually than Alabama A&M graduates ($68,778 vs $52,107). Auburn also maintains a 79.2% graduation rate compared to Alabama A&M's 28.7%, suggesting stronger program completion and industry connections that translate to higher starting salaries.

How do Alabama's public university costs compare for in-state mechanical engineering students?

In-state tuition ranges from $8,832 at UAB to $12,536 at Auburn, a difference of just $3,704 annually. However, net costs after aid vary more dramatically, from $14,559 at Alabama A&M to $23,897 at Auburn, showing how financial aid packages significantly impact actual student expenses.

Does University of Alabama at Birmingham offer good value despite moderate earnings?

UAB graduates earn $59,253 with a net cost of $17,727, creating a reasonable return on investment. The university's 62.4% graduation rate and $20,250 median debt load make it competitive, especially given Birmingham's growing manufacturing base that employs mechanical engineers.

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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.