Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 29.9%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $50,051
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 21:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 46.8%
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ground Transportation. | Certificate | $48,432 | |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Associate | $42,682 | |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $33,993 |
Outcomes Overview
Bates Technical College graduates earn a median of $50,051 within ten years of leaving school. The low federal loan rate of just 1.94% means most students graduate debt-free or with minimal borrowing. For those who do take loans, payments typically consume less than 10% of monthly income based on the strong earnings trajectory. Graduates enter high-demand trades like automotive technology, welding, and healthcare support roles that offer stable middle-class wages in the Tacoma region. The 46.75% loan repayment rate reflects the practical reality that technical careers provide steady employment but not rapid salary growth. For students seeking immediate workforce entry without crushing debt, this represents a strong return on investment.