Environmental Control Technologies/Technicians at Ferris State University

Ferris State's environmental control technologies program shows strong earnings potential with remarkably low debt, though the small graduate cohort means individual results could vary significantly. The $11,000 median debt sits in the 95th percentile nationally (meaning only 5% of similar programs have lower debt), while first-year earnings of $48,795 already exceed the national median. That 0.23 debt-to-earnings ratio translates to roughly three months of gross income needed to cover total borrowing—an enviable position for any graduate.

The 40% earnings jump from year one to year four ($48,795 to $68,281) suggests this field rewards experience and skill development. While the program ranks at the 60th percentile within Michigan, context matters: it's actually tied for the state median, and with only 14 programs statewide, options are limited. The bigger story is how it compares nationally, landing in the 71st percentile against 222 programs.

The caveat: fewer than 30 students reported data, so these numbers reflect a small sample. One exceptionally high or low earner could shift the median considerably. Still, the combination of minimal debt and solid starting pay creates favorable math for most graduates. For families prioritizing quick entry to a technical field without heavy borrowing, this program delivers on both fronts—just recognize you're looking at a smaller dataset than ideal.