Mechanical Engineering at Florida Atlantic University

Florida Atlantic's mechanical engineering program produces solid outcomes that look better in Florida than nationally. While first-year earnings of $68,451 fall slightly below the national median, this places graduates at the 60th percentile among Florida's 16 mechanical engineering programs—meaningful context since most students pay in-state tuition rates. The debt load of $22,025 is reasonable for engineering, translating to a manageable 0.32 debt-to-earnings ratio, and graduates see consistent 15% earnings growth over four years.

The key consideration is whether your student prioritizes immediate high earnings or values a more accessible program with decent outcomes. FAU sits comfortably in the middle tier of Florida schools—earning about $8,000 less initially than University of Florida grads but $3,000 more than FIU graduates. For families weighing Florida's top programs, this represents a viable middle path, especially given FAU's 73% admission rate compared to more selective competitors.

The fundamentals work: engineering graduates leave with below-average debt and enter a profession where their earnings grow steadily. For students who can gain admission to UF or USF, those programs offer stronger earnings potential. But for families seeking an accessible mechanical engineering degree with manageable debt and solid employment prospects in Florida's aerospace and manufacturing sectors, FAU delivers reasonable value at what's likely a lower total cost of attendance.