At $10,741/yr net price, Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology graduates earn $38,679/yr within 10 years of enrollment, which is $4,679/yr above the median for high school graduates.
Cost vs. Outcomes
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average Net Price (per year) | $10,741 |
| Estimated 4-Year Cost | $42,964 |
| Median Earnings (10yr post-entry) | $38,679/yr |
| Earnings Premium vs. HS Diploma | +$4,679/yr |
| Estimated Break-Even | 9.2 years |
| Graduation Rate (6-year) | 36.3% |
| Median Debt at Graduation | $9,500 |
What You'll Actually Pay
Average net price by family income
| Family Income | Estimated Net Price |
|---|---|
| $0 - $30,000 | $8,755/yr |
| $30,001 - $48,000 | $9,832/yr |
| $48,001 - $75,000 | $11,343/yr |
| $75,001 - $110,000 | $14,759/yr |
| $110,001+ | $14,503/yr |
Earnings by Major
Top programs ranked by median earnings
| Program | Level | Median Earnings | Median Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies. | Certificate | $47,260 | $12,000 |
| Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians. | Certificate | $40,647 | $5,500 |
| Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians. | Certificate | $35,772 | $4,750 |
| Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians. | Associate | $33,809 | $16,168 |
| Practical Nursing, Vocational Nursing and Nursing Assistants. | Certificate | $31,133 | $9,500 |
| Health Aides/Attendants/Orderlies. | Certificate | $18,498 |
The Risk Factor
36.3% of students at Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology graduate within 6 years. Fewer than half of students complete their degree. If you don't graduate, the financial investment may not pay off.
Analysis
Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology delivers solid returns for technical career seekers, with graduates earning median salaries of $38,679 while carrying just $9,500 in debt. The school's focus on hands-on trades and technical programs aligns well with Kansas manufacturing and aerospace industries.
Vehicle maintenance and repair stands out as the financial winner, generating $47,260 annually with $12,000 in debt. Industrial production technology follows closely at $40,647 with only $5,500 in debt, making it the best debt-to-income ratio among major programs. Mechanical engineering technology graduates earn $35,772 with minimal $4,750 debt loads.
Drafting and design technology presents a concerning outlier with $16,168 in debt for $33,809 earnings, creating a problematic debt burden relative to earning potential. Nursing assistant programs generate lower returns at $31,133, though debt remains manageable at $9,500.
The school's biggest financial risk lies in its 36% graduation rate. You face real odds of accumulating debt without completing your program. The low percentage of students receiving aid suggests limited financial support beyond federal programs, so budget carefully before enrolling.
This school works best for you if you want specific technical skills leading directly to employment in manufacturing, automotive, or healthcare support roles. The programs target Kansas's industrial base, particularly around Wichita's aircraft manufacturing sector. Avoid this school if you need extensive financial aid packages or prefer academic transfer pathways to four-year degrees. The specialized nature of programs means limited flexibility if you change career direction mid-program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology worth the money?
The school offers decent value with low debt ($9,500 median) and a reasonable net price of $10,741 yearly. However, the 36% graduation rate is concerning, and median earnings of $38,679 ten years out are modest for technical fields.
What are the best paying programs at Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology?
Vehicle maintenance and repair leads at $47,260, followed by industrial production tech at $40,647. These programs offer the strongest return on investment at this campus.
How much debt do students graduate with from Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology?
Median student debt is $9,500, which is relatively low compared to most colleges. This keeps monthly payments manageable for technical field salaries.
What is the graduation rate at Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology?
Only 36% of students graduate, which is low even for community and technical colleges. This suggests many students either transfer or drop out before completing their programs.