Analysis
Iowa State's mechanical engineering program delivers solid financial returns that place it squarely in the middle of both national and state rankings. Starting salaries of $72,900 match Iowa's state median exactly and sit at the 64th percentile nationally—respectable but not exceptional for a program at a school with an 89% acceptance rate. The $23,500 median debt load is actually slightly better than the national average of $24,755, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32.
What's particularly reassuring is the steady earnings progression, with graduates seeing 12% growth to $81,779 by year four. This suggests the program provides skills that translate into career advancement. Among Iowa's five mechanical engineering programs, Iowa State performs competitively, essentially tied with Saint Ambrose and ahead of the University of Iowa.
The combination of accessible admissions, reasonable debt levels, and reliable post-graduation outcomes makes this a sensible choice for students seeking a straightforward path into mechanical engineering. While it won't catapult graduates to the top tier of earners, it offers predictable returns with limited financial risk—exactly what many families should want from an engineering degree.
Where Iowa State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mechanical engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Iowa State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa State University | $72,900 | $81,779 | +12% |
| Duke University | $89,938 | $101,532 | +13% |
| California State University Maritime Academy | $92,315 | $101,325 | +10% |
| SUNY Maritime College | $77,895 | $99,578 | +28% |
| University of Iowa | $71,732 | $76,903 | +7% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Iowa
Mechanical Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Iowa (5 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Iowa State UniversityAmes | $10,497 | $72,900 | $81,779 | $23,500 | 0.32 |
 Saint Ambrose UniversityDavenport | $35,598 | $73,622 | — | $26,996 | 0.37 |
 University of IowaIowa City | $10,964 | $71,732 | $76,903 | $23,109 | 0.32 |
| National Median | — | $70,744 | — | $24,755 | 0.35 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mechanical engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Aerospace Engineers
Mechanical Engineers
Fuel Cell Engineers
Automotive Engineers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Cost Estimators
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 Iowa State University, approximately 18% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 446 graduates with reported earnings and 460 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.