Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians at Bowling Green State University-Firelands
Associate's Degree
firelands.bgsu.eduAnalysis
Similar electrical engineering technology programs in Ohio suggest first-year earnings around $58,000—right at the state median and above the national benchmark of $54,852. With estimated debt of $14,346, graduates would face monthly loan payments of roughly $160, a manageable burden that represents just 3% of their expected monthly income. That's a textbook example of sustainable educational debt.
The wide range among Ohio programs is worth noting, though. Stark State College graduates earn double what this program's peers typically produce, while Zane State falls well below. Location and industry connections matter enormously in technical fields, and Firelands' position in Huron—between Cleveland's manufacturing corridor and Toledo's industrial base—could provide solid placement opportunities. Still, comparable programs in Ohio carry median debt of $17,609, suggesting Firelands manages costs better than many alternatives.
For parents weighing this investment, the estimated 0.25 debt-to-earnings ratio lands in comfortable territory for a two-year technical credential. Associate's degrees in electrical technology typically lead to stable technician roles with clear career ladders, and the math here pencils out favorably. The main question is whether this specific program matches the stronger performers in the state or merely tracks with the middle of the pack—something worth investigating through conversations with the department about job placement rates and employer partnerships.
Where Bowling Green State University-Firelands Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all electrical engineering technologies/technicians associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians associates's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (32 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,206 | $58,056* | — | $14,346* | — | |
| $4,670 | $109,198* | — | $11,083* | 0.10 | |
| $17,488 | $58,056* | $52,465 | $28,782* | 0.50 | |
| $5,856 | $47,946* | $76,777 | $10,334* | 0.22 | |
| National Median | — | $54,852* | — | $14,710* | 0.27 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with electrical engineering technologies/technicians graduates
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay
Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
Robotics Technicians
Electrical and Electronics Drafters
Calibration Technologists and Technicians
Sound Engineering Technicians
Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other
Non-Destructive Testing Specialists
Photonics Technicians
Disc Jockeys, Except Radio
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 Bowling Green State University-Firelands, approximately 26% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.