Est. Earnings (1yr)
$58,056
Est. from OH median (3 programs)
Est. Median Debt
$14,346
Est. from OH median (4 programs)

Analysis

In Ohio, electrical engineering technology programs at the associate level show considerable variation, with first-year earnings ranging from around $48,000 at some schools to over $100,000 at others. Based on comparable programs in the state, Rhodes State graduates likely start near $58,000—right at the state median and noticeably above the national benchmark of roughly $55,000. That's solid footing for a two-year credential in technical work.

The estimated debt load of about $14,300 translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.25, meaning graduates would owe roughly three months' salary. That's manageable by most measures, especially for a field where hands-on skills and certifications can lead to steady employment. However, it's worth noting that other Ohio programs report median debt closer to $17,600, suggesting Rhodes State may offer a cost advantage—though these estimates draw from limited peer data, not tracked outcomes from this specific program.

The real uncertainty here is that wide range among Ohio schools. Without actual graduate data from Rhodes State, you're relying on state averages that mask significant program-to-program differences. If their curriculum aligns well with local industry needs in the Lima area or connects students to employers early, outcomes could beat these estimates. The fundamentals suggest reasonable value, but confirming placement rates and employer partnerships would help clarify whether this program delivers on that potential.

Where James A. Rhodes State College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all electrical engineering technologies/technicians associates's programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio

Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians associates's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (32 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)*Earnings (4yr)Median Debt*Debt/Earnings
James A. Rhodes State CollegeLima$4,657$58,056*$14,346*
Stark State CollegeNorth Canton$4,670$109,198*$11,083*0.10
DeVry University-OhioColumbus$17,488$58,056*$52,465$28,782*0.50
Zane State CollegeZanesville$5,856$47,946*$76,777$10,334*0.22
National Median$54,852*$14,710*0.27
* Estimated from similar programs

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with electrical engineering technologies/technicians graduates

Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians

Operate, install, adjust, and maintain integrated computer/communications systems, consoles, simulators, and other data acquisition, test, and measurement instruments and equipment, which are used to launch, track, position, and evaluate air and space vehicles. May record and interpret test data.

$79,830/yrJobs growth:Associate's degree

Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians

Apply electrical and electronic theory and related knowledge, usually under the direction of engineering staff, to design, build, repair, adjust, and modify electrical components, circuitry, controls, and machinery for subsequent evaluation and use by engineering staff in making engineering design decisions.

$77,180/yrJobs growth:Associate's degree

Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay

Inspect, test, repair, or maintain electrical equipment in generating stations, substations, and in-service relays.

$71,270/yrJobs growth:

Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians

Operate, test, maintain, or adjust unmanned, automated, servomechanical, or electromechanical equipment. May operate unmanned submarines, aircraft, or other equipment to observe or record visual information at sites such as oil rigs, crop fields, buildings, or for similar infrastructure, deep ocean exploration, or hazardous waste removal. May assist engineers in testing and designing robotics equipment.

$70,760/yrJobs growth:Associate's degree

Robotics Technicians

Build, install, test, or maintain robotic equipment or related automated production systems.

$70,760/yrJobs growth:Associate's degree

Electrical and Electronics Drafters

Prepare wiring diagrams, circuit board assembly diagrams, and layout drawings used for the manufacture, installation, or repair of electrical equipment.

$65,380/yrJobs growth:Associate's degree

Calibration Technologists and Technicians

Execute or adapt procedures and techniques for calibrating measurement devices, by applying knowledge of measurement science, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and electronics, sometimes under the direction of engineering staff. Determine measurement standard suitability for calibrating measurement devices. May perform preventive maintenance on equipment. May perform corrective actions to address identified calibration problems.

$65,040/yrJobs growth:Associate's degree

Sound Engineering Technicians

Assemble and operate equipment to record, synchronize, mix, edit, or reproduce sound, including music, voices, or sound effects, for theater, video, film, television, podcasts, sporting events, and other productions.

$56,600/yrJobs growth:

Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other

All engineering technologists and technicians, except drafters, not listed separately.

Non-Destructive Testing Specialists

Test the safety of structures, vehicles, or vessels using x-ray, ultrasound, fiber optic or related equipment.

Photonics Technicians

Build, install, test, or maintain optical or fiber optic equipment, such as lasers, lenses, or mirrors, using spectrometers, interferometers, or related equipment.

Disc Jockeys, Except Radio

Play prerecorded music for live audiences at venues or events such as clubs, parties, or wedding receptions. May use techniques such as mixing, cutting, or sampling to manipulate recordings. May also perform as emcee (master of ceremonies).

Jobs growth:
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 James A. Rhodes State College, approximately 15% 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.

Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.