Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering at Bradley University

Bradley's electrical engineering graduates earn solidly above the Illinois median at $76,475, placing them in the 60th percentile statewide—a meaningful position given that this puts them ahead of programs at UIC and Illinois Tech, though below powerhouses like UIUC. That first-year salary supports the $27,000 in typical debt comfortably, with graduates owing just 35 cents for every dollar earned. This debt load sits below both state and national averages, giving students financial breathing room early in their careers.

The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story: graduates see an 18% salary increase by year four, reaching over $90,000. While Bradley ranks in the middle nationally (43rd percentile), the program clearly delivers value for Illinois residents who want strong engineering outcomes without the admissions pressure of UIUC. The moderate sample size suggests consistent, if not spectacular, placement in the field.

For families weighing options, Bradley offers a practical path into electrical engineering with manageable debt and reliable career progression. The combination of above-state-median earnings and below-average debt creates a foundation that lets graduates build wealth rather than scramble to cover loan payments. It won't match the salary ceiling of top-tier programs, but it provides solid engineering credentials at a price that makes financial sense.