Electrical and Power Transmission Installers at Bismarck State College
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
Bismarck State College's power transmission program posts first-year earnings 26% above the national median, and graduates carry only $5,500 in debt—roughly half what students typically borrow for this credential. That 0.11 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates earn back their total educational investment in about six weeks, an exceptionally clean financial profile for a technical certificate.
The trajectory looks even better four years out. Median earnings climb to $64,500, representing 32% growth that suggests genuine skill development and career advancement rather than a quick credential with nowhere to go. While the program ranks at the 60th percentile among North Dakota's two offerings (limited comparison given the small market), it lands in the 78th percentile nationally—well above the typical $38,716 first-year earnings for electrical and power transmission programs across the country.
For families evaluating trade education, this represents exactly what a certificate program should deliver: quick entry into well-paying work with minimal debt burden. The combination of low borrowing, above-average starting wages, and solid earnings growth creates immediate return on investment with room for career progression in North Dakota's energy infrastructure sector.
Where Bismarck State College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all electrical and power transmission installers certificate's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Bismarck State College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Bismarck State College graduates earn $49k, placing them in the 78th percentile of all electrical and power transmission installers certificate programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in North Dakota
Electrical and Power Transmission Installers certificate's programs at peer institutions in North Dakota (2 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bismarck State College | $48,853 | $64,500 | $5,500 | 0.11 |
| National Median | $38,716 | — | $9,500 | 0.25 |
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 Bismarck State College, approximately 14% 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 45 graduates with reported earnings and 43 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.