Analysis
An associate degree in Engineering Technology typically launches graduates into solid technical careers, and the estimated debt-to-earnings ratio here—roughly 29%—suggests reasonable financial footing. Based on comparable programs nationwide, first-year earnings around $48,300 align with the national median for this field, while estimated debt of about $13,800 tracks slightly above the typical $12,900 but remains manageable. For a two-year credential, that's a debt load most graduates can handle on an entry-level technician's salary.
What's harder to assess is how this specific program stacks up locally. Florida has two dozen schools offering Engineering Technology associate degrees, but without reported outcomes from those competitors, it's difficult to know whether College of Central Florida's pathway matches the stronger or weaker end of the state's options. The national alignment is encouraging, but parents should recognize these figures reflect peer programs across the country rather than this school's actual graduate outcomes.
The practical reality: if your child completes this degree and lands near that $48,000 mark, they'll be managing debt payments of roughly $140-160 monthly—tight but workable. Before committing, confirm what technical certifications come with the degree and which local employers actively recruit from this program. The numbers suggest viability, but knowing the specific career pipeline matters more than aggregate estimates.
Where College of Central Florida Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all engineering technology associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Engineering Technology associates's programs at top institutions nationally
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2,710 | $48,321* | — | $13,834* | — | |
| $4,516 | $61,123* | — | —* | — | |
| $5,774 | $53,143* | $70,007 | $11,000* | 0.21 | |
| $4,550 | $52,531* | $59,650 | $13,865* | 0.26 | |
| $5,350 | $50,148* | — | $13,834* | 0.28 | |
| $4,046 | $46,493* | $38,281 | $18,000* | 0.39 | |
| National Median | — | $48,320* | — | $12,917* | 0.27 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with engineering technology graduates
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
Robotics Technicians
Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Nanotechnology Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Civil Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other
Non-Destructive Testing Specialists
Photonics Technicians
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 College of Central Florida, approximately 40% 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 8 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.