Mechanical Engineering at Friends University

Friends University's mechanical engineering program shows typical Kansas outcomes in a field known for solid starting salaries. Similar programs in the state suggest first-year earnings around $71,000—right at the state median and above the national benchmark. Combined with estimated debt of $26,500, graduates would face monthly payments of roughly $295, representing about 5% of gross income. That's a manageable debt burden for an engineering degree and compares favorably to the national median debt of nearly $25,000.

The challenge is uncertainty. With such a small engineering program that the Department of Education can't report actual graduate outcomes, you're essentially betting on whether Friends can deliver results comparable to Kansas State, Wichita State, and the state's other established programs. The university's 1014 average SAT score and 56% admission rate suggest it serves a different student population than Kansas State or KU, which could affect how well students are prepared for engineering's demanding curriculum and competitive job market.

For families considering this program, the key question isn't whether mechanical engineering is a good field—it clearly is—but whether a small program at Friends can match the placement success and employer recognition of larger, more established Kansas engineering schools. If your student thrives in smaller settings and Friends offers substantial financial aid beyond these estimated figures, it might work. Otherwise, the state's programs with proven track records offer more certainty at similar or better debt levels.