Analysis
Christian Brothers University's engineering-related bachelor's program operates in a state where few schools offer similar credentials, making peer comparisons somewhat limited. Based on comparable programs nationally, graduates typically earn around $69,000 in their first year—roughly $5,000 above the Tennessee median for this field and aligned with national averages. The estimated debt load of $27,000 translates to a manageable 0.39 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly five months of their first-year salary.
The uncertainty here matters more than usual. With only three Tennessee schools offering this degree type and suppressed data at Christian Brothers specifically, we're relying heavily on national patterns rather than local outcomes. What we do know is that Middle Tennessee State—the state's top performer with reported data—posts first-year earnings of $67,400, suggesting the $69,000 estimate for CBU sits in reasonable territory. The modest debt estimate also tracks with the school's 31% Pell grant rate, indicating a student body with genuine financial need but relatively controlled borrowing.
For a field as broad as "engineering-related," the devil is in the specifics—whether this means engineering technology, surveying, or something else entirely shapes career prospects considerably. The financial fundamentals look workable on paper, but you'd want to understand exactly what specialization CBU offers and verify placement outcomes directly with the program before committing.
Where Christian Brothers University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all engineering-related fields bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Tennessee
Engineering-Related Fields bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Tennessee (3 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $37,300 | $68,919* | — | $26,975* | — | |
| $9,506 | $67,431* | $74,671 | $19,576* | 0.29 | |
| $10,144 | $60,284* | $61,709 | $25,500* | 0.42 | |
| National Median | — | $68,919* | — | $25,368* | 0.37 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with engineering-related fields graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Industrial Production Managers
Quality Control Systems Managers
Geothermal Production Managers
Biofuels Production Managers
Biomass Power Plant Managers
Hydroelectric Production Managers
Facilities Managers
Security Managers
Industrial Engineers
Human Factors Engineers and Ergonomists
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 Christian Brothers University, approximately 31% 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 national median of 31 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.