Precision Metal Working at Delta Technical College-Mississippi

Delta Technical College's precision metalworking program delivers modest but concerning results for the investment. With median earnings of $31,630 in the first year, graduates earn significantly less than both the national median ($36,248) and even Mississippi's state median ($33,524) for the same program. This places the program in just the 28th percentile nationally and 40th percentile within Mississippi—meaning most similar programs produce better-earning graduates.

The debt picture tells a mixed story. At $9,500, student debt is relatively manageable and sits near national norms, though it's notably higher than Mississippi's typical $5,500 for metalworking programs. The 0.30 debt-to-earnings ratio is reasonable, meaning graduates can expect to earn about three times their debt annually. However, earnings growth is sluggish at just 7% over four years, suggesting limited career advancement potential.

When compared to other Mississippi metalworking programs, Delta Technical ranks poorly. Four community colleges in the state produce graduates earning $35,000+ in their first year—$3,000-4,600 more than Delta's graduates. Given that community colleges typically cost less and deliver better outcomes in this field within Mississippi, this program represents a weak value proposition. Your child would likely be better served by pursuing metalworking training at one of Mississippi's community colleges instead.