Analysis
Construction engineering technologies programs typically place graduates into solid-paying roles, and Clemson's estimated outcomes fit that pattern. Based on comparable programs nationally, first-year earnings around $72,240 against debt of roughly $24,745 yields a manageable 0.34 debt-to-earnings ratio—meaning you'd owe about 34 cents for every dollar earned in year one. That's comfortably below the 1.0 threshold where debt becomes burdensome, suggesting graduates should be able to handle their loan payments while building financial stability.
What makes this harder to evaluate is that Clemson is the only South Carolina school offering this specific bachelor's program, and the small graduate cohort means we're working entirely with national estimates rather than school-specific outcomes. Construction engineering technologies sits at the intersection of engineering and construction management, preparing students for roles like project engineer, construction coordinator, or field engineer. These positions tend to offer steady employment in a field where practical skills matter as much as the credential itself. Clemson's strong engineering reputation and 38% admission rate suggest quality instruction, though you're betting on that translating to outcomes that meet or exceed the national pattern.
The financial picture looks reasonable on paper, but recognize you're making this decision without seeing actual graduate outcomes from this program. If your child has concrete connections to South Carolina's construction industry or Clemson specifically appeals for other reasons, the estimated numbers don't raise red flags. Otherwise, comparing this to similar programs at other schools where actual earnings data exists would provide more certainty about your return.
Where Clemson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all construction engineering technologies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Construction Engineering Technologies bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $15,554 | $72,240* | — | $24,745* | — | |
| $7,008 | $89,003* | $100,265 | $17,866* | 0.20 | |
| $8,064 | $88,648* | — | $21,104* | 0.24 | |
| $7,439 | $87,960* | $97,515 | $16,067* | 0.18 | |
| $8,290 | $81,608* | — | —* | — | |
| $12,997 | $80,404* | — | $28,550* | 0.36 | |
| National Median | — | $72,240* | — | $24,744* | 0.34 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with construction engineering technologies graduates
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 Clemson University, approximately 15% 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 45 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.