Analysis
With estimated first-year earnings around $55,000 and debt near $12,000, this electrical engineering technology program appears to follow a pattern common to associate degrees in technical fields: manageable debt relative to starting pay. Based on comparable programs nationwide, graduates can expect a debt burden equivalent to roughly 22% of their first year's salary—a level that shouldn't overwhelm a typical entry-level technician's budget.
The estimated debt figure is actually below the national median for these programs ($14,710), which suggests Clark College may offer relatively affordable access to technical training. Electrical engineering technology has historically been one of the stronger two-year options for students seeking direct pathways to skilled trades, and these estimates align with that reputation. However, Washington's job market for technicians can vary significantly depending on proximity to manufacturing centers and construction activity, factors that could swing actual outcomes above or below these peer-based projections.
The caveat parents need to understand: these figures come from similar programs elsewhere, not Clark College's own graduate outcomes. That means you're betting on your child's experience mirroring national patterns rather than banking on verified local results. If affordable technical training with solid earning potential appeals to your family, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value—but request placement rates and employer connections from the program itself before committing.
Where Clark College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all electrical engineering technologies/technicians associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,632 | $54,852* | — | $12,063* | — | |
| $4,670 | $109,198* | — | $11,083* | 0.10 | |
| $5,195 | $89,460* | $97,691 | $14,236* | 0.16 | |
| $4,706 | $71,070* | — | —* | — | |
| $5,639 | $69,797* | — | —* | — | |
| $4,872 | $68,590* | $62,046 | $10,669* | 0.16 | |
| 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 Clark College, approximately 22% 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 49 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.