Student Outcomes
- Graduation Rate (6-year)
- 40.5%
- Median Earnings (10 years after entry)
- $41,016
- Median Debt at Graduation
- $12,000
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- 20:1
- Loan Repayment Rate
- 44.1%
- Estimated Monthly Loan Payment
- $127/mo
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. | Associate | $51,054 | $15,750 |
| Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $48,041 | $15,983 |
| Agricultural Mechanization. | Associate | $46,087 | |
| Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $46,087 | |
| Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $45,500 | |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management. | Associate | $44,356 | $12,585 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. | Associate | $43,319 | $15,788 |
| Computer Programming. | Associate | $42,123 | $14,112 |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $41,342 | $12,000 |
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Associate | $39,369 | $10,000 |
| Agricultural Production Operations. | Associate | $37,208 | $9,530 |
| Construction Management. | Associate | $36,674 | |
| Graphic Communications. | Associate | $36,668 | |
| Dental Support Services and Allied Professions. | Associate | $35,772 | $11,999 |
| Health and Medical Administrative Services. | Associate | $35,060 | $27,394 |
Outcomes Overview
Kirkwood graduates earn a median of $41,016 ten years after starting college, while carrying typical debt loads of $12,000. This creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 29%, well below the problematic 40% threshold. Monthly loan payments of $127 represent just 3.7% of median income. The college's strong ties to Cedar Rapids employers and Iowa's manufacturing sector help explain the impressive 95.6% employment rate. Many graduates enter healthcare, advanced manufacturing, and skilled trades where associate degrees command solid wages in Iowa's lower-cost market. With minimal debt and strong job placement, Kirkwood delivers a strong return on investment for students seeking practical career preparation.