Median Earnings (1yr)
$51,219
56th percentile
Median Debt
$26,000
16% below national median

Analysis

Ball State's Computer Engineering Technologies program sits squarely in the middle of the pack—earning graduates about $51,200 in their first year, which beats both the national median ($48,829) and the Indiana median ($49,929). Among Indiana's four programs, it ranks in the 60th percentile, outperforming Indiana State's offering by roughly $2,600. For a school with a 72% admission rate, these outcomes suggest solid technical training that translates to real job market competitiveness.

The financial picture is reasonable but not exceptional. At $26,000 in debt, graduates face a 0.51 debt-to-earnings ratio—meaning they owe about half their first year's salary. This is manageable by tech standards, though the debt level sits higher than ideal in the 71st percentile nationally. Most graduates should be able to handle monthly payments without financial strain, assuming they secure employment in their field promptly.

For Indiana families looking at in-state options for computer engineering technology, Ball State represents a dependable choice. The program won't catapult your child into Silicon Valley, but it delivers better-than-average earnings with debt levels that shouldn't dominate their twenties. If your student prefers hands-on technical work over pure computer science theory, this program offers a practical pathway to a stable career with decent starting compensation.

Where Ball State University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering technologies/technicians bachelors's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How Ball State University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in Indiana

Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Indiana (4 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Ball State UniversityMuncie$10,758$51,219$26,0000.51
Indiana State UniversityTerre Haute$9,992$48,639$54,713$25,0000.51
National Median$48,829$31,0000.63

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with computer engineering technologies/technicians graduates

Software Developers

Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.

$131,450/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers

Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.

$131,450/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Computer Programmers

Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.

$98,670/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Apply electrical and electronic theory and related knowledge, usually under the direction of engineering staff, to design, build, repair, adjust, and modify electrical components, circuitry, controls, and machinery for subsequent evaluation and use by engineering staff in making engineering design decisions.

$77,180/yrJobs growth:Associate's degree

Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other

All engineering technologists and technicians, except drafters, not listed separately.

Non-Destructive Testing Specialists

Test the safety of structures, vehicles, or vessels using x-ray, ultrasound, fiber optic or related equipment.

Photonics Technicians

Build, install, test, or maintain optical or fiber optic equipment, such as lasers, lenses, or mirrors, using spectrometers, interferometers, or related equipment.

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Ball State University, approximately 34% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.

Sample Size: Based on 35 graduates with reported earnings and 35 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.