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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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,758 | $51,219 | — | $26,000 | 0.51 | |
| $9,992 | $48,639 | $54,713 | $25,000 | 0.51 | |
| National Median | — | $48,829 | — | $31,000 | 0.63 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer engineering technologies/technicians graduates
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Programmers
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other
Non-Destructive Testing Specialists
Photonics Technicians
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.