Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians at Bismarck State College

This is one of the strongest associate degree programs in the country for earnings potential. Bismarck State College graduates start at $82,310—nearly $26,000 above the national median and dramatically higher than the region's typical $57,000 starting salary for all bachelor's degrees. Even compared to North Dakota's robust energy and manufacturing sector, this program delivers: it's the clear earnings leader among the state's three industrial production programs, beating North Dakota State College of Science by $23,000 annually.

The financial math works decisively in students' favor. With just $12,000 in median debt—less than 15% of first-year earnings—graduates face minimal financial burden while accessing six-figure earning potential. By year four, median earnings reach $100,657, representing 22% growth and putting graduates well into middle-class stability. That debt loads represents barely six weeks of work at these income levels.

For families evaluating technical education options, this program offers exceptional return on investment. It outperforms the vast majority of bachelor's degree programs at a fraction of the time and cost. The moderate sample size means outcomes are reasonably stable, and the program's connection to North Dakota's industrial sector—oil and gas production, manufacturing, agriculture—provides clear employment pathways. If your child has mechanical aptitude and prefers hands-on work over classroom theory, this represents one of the better financial decisions in higher education today.