Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians at Benedict College

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40 suggests a manageable starting point—the estimated $27,000 in loans against first-year earnings around $67,000 means monthly payments would consume roughly 6-7% of gross income under standard repayment. That's within the conventional "affordable" range, though it leaves less cushion than ideal for a recent graduate. What's less certain is whether Benedict's specific program delivers outcomes aligned with these national estimates, which reflect the median across dozens of engineering technology programs nationwide.

The context matters here. Benedict serves a predominantly Pell-eligible student body (63%), and for students who might not otherwise access engineering-adjacent careers, a bachelor's in electrical engineering technology can open doors to roles as technicians, field engineers, or technical specialists. These positions typically offer solid middle-class wages and career progression. However, engineering technology programs vary significantly in employer recognition, lab resources, and industry connections—factors that shape whether graduates actually reach the $67,000 benchmark.

Given the uncertainty, focus on program specifics: Does Benedict have partnerships with utilities, manufacturers, or defense contractors in the Columbia area? What's the four-year graduation rate, and do graduates secure positions aligned with their degree? With only two schools offering this major in South Carolina, your options are limited if staying in-state matters. The estimated numbers suggest reasonable potential, but verify that Benedict's particular program has the infrastructure and outcomes to justify the investment.