At $9,964/yr net price, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology graduates earn $54,681/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $20,681/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $9,964 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $39,856 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $54,681/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$20,681/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 1.9 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 60.0% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,990 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $3,142/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $4,020/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $9,842/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $15,071/yr |
| $110,001+ | $16,903/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering. | Associate | $53,358 | |
| Electrical/Electronics Maintenance and Repair Technology. | Associate | $53,358 | $10,966 |
| Precision Metal Working. | Associate | $46,193 | $12,000 |
| Architectural Sciences and Technology. | Associate | $42,682 | |
| Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR). | Associate | $42,235 | $8,977 |
| Engineering Technologies/Technicians, Other. | Associate | $41,937 | |
| Plumbing and Related Water Supply Services. | Associate | $39,729 | |
| Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $38,649 | $11,940 |
| Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services, Other. | Associate | $38,289 | $8,903 |
| Woodworking. | Associate | $36,312 | $9,373 |
The Risk Factor
60.0% of students at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology graduate within 6 years. A significant share of students finish, but roughly 40% do not complete their degree.
Analysis
Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology delivers solid financial returns with a median salary of $54,681 and manageable debt loads under $11,000 for most programs. The $9,964 annual net price makes this one of Pennsylvania's more affordable pathways into skilled trades.
Your best financial bets are electrical/electronics maintenance and mechatronics programs, both hitting $53,358 in median earnings with debt around $10,966. These technical fields align well with Lancaster's manufacturing base and broader regional demand. Precision metalworking graduates earn $46,193 but carry slightly higher debt at $12,000. HVAC technicians start lower at $42,235 but graduate with just $8,977 in debt, creating a faster payback timeline.
The 60% graduation rate presents your biggest financial risk. Dropping out leaves you with debt but no credential to show for it. The technical curriculum demands consistent attendance and hands-on engagement, making this a poor fit if you struggle with structured programs or mechanical aptitude.
You should consider Stevens if you want direct entry into skilled trades without spending four years in college. The combination of low costs, reasonable debt, and strong regional employer connections works especially well for Pennsylvania residents. However, look elsewhere if you need flexibility in scheduling or prefer theoretical over hands-on learning.
With only 40% of students receiving financial aid, Stevens likely offers limited need-based assistance beyond federal programs. The low sticker price means less room for institutional scholarships, but the affordable base cost reduces your need for extensive aid packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology worth the cost?
With a net price of $9,964 and median earnings of $54,681 after 10 years, Thaddeus Stevens offers solid ROI for a technical college. The low debt load of $9,990 makes it financially manageable for most students.
Which programs at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology have the best job prospects?
Electrical/Electronics Maintenance and Mechatronics programs lead with $53,358 starting salaries. HVAC and Architectural Sciences programs pay less at around $42,000, which is still reasonable given the low tuition costs.
What are the graduation rates like at Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology?
The 60% graduation rate is concerning and below national averages for technical colleges. This means 4 out of 10 students don't finish their programs, which increases the risk of debt without a degree.
How much debt do students typically have after Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology?
The median debt of $9,990 is very low compared to most colleges. This manageable debt load, combined with decent earning potential in technical fields, reduces financial risk for graduates.