Analysis
Texas auto tech programs produce a wide range of outcomes, and Cisco College's estimated numbers land squarely in the middle. Based on comparable associate programs across the state, graduates here likely earn around $38,500 in their first year while carrying roughly $10,400 in debt—a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27 that should be manageable on an entry-level technician's salary. That said, the top programs in Texas report significantly stronger results, with places like Tarrant County College and Hallmark University producing first-year earnings above $47,000.
The real question is whether this program provides adequate preparation for Texas's automotive service market. Similar programs statewide show graduates typically earn below the national median of $42,900, suggesting either regional wage differences or varying program quality. With only four comparable community college programs reporting debt data in Texas, the $10,400 estimate has limited precision, though it's notably lower than the state median of $17,360 for all auto tech programs.
For parents whose children are set on automotive work and prefer staying close to home in rural Texas, this program offers affordable training with reasonable debt. But if your student can commute to a larger city, the data suggests that urban community colleges consistently deliver stronger earnings outcomes—potentially $10,000 more annually—without dramatically higher costs.
Where Cisco College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all vehicle maintenance and repair technologies associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies associates's programs at peer institutions in Texas (44 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,110 | $38,506* | — | $10,387* | — | |
| $1,728 | $50,531* | $63,252 | $14,503* | 0.29 | |
| — | $47,446* | $53,136 | $23,287* | 0.49 | |
| $2,136 | $45,594* | $43,890 | —* | — | |
| — | $42,896* | $46,964 | $12,000* | 0.28 | |
| $2,550 | $41,194* | $40,855 | $10,230* | 0.25 | |
| National Median | — | $42,896* | — | $12,000* | 0.28 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with vehicle maintenance and repair technologies graduates
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Avionics Technicians
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment
Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Automotive Body and Related Repairers
Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians
Motorcycle Mechanics
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 Cisco College, approximately 24% 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 15 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.