Analysis
John Brown University's engineering program produces solid outcomes that match the national median ($67,911 starting), but context matters here: with only four engineering programs in Arkansas, and this one ranking in the 60th percentile statewide, you're looking at middle-of-the-pack performance in a limited field. The $25,488 debt load is reasonable—just below the national median—and the 0.38 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can manage repayment without undue strain.
The earnings trajectory looks healthy, with a 21% increase to nearly $82,000 by year four. That's competitive growth for engineering grads. However, the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift significantly year to year. What works today might look different for your student's cohort, and there's no track record here to show consistency.
For families seeking an affordable engineering degree in Arkansas, this program delivers decent value—especially if your student thrives in a smaller Christian university environment. The debt is manageable and starting salaries hit national benchmarks. Just recognize you're betting on limited data at a school where engineering isn't the historical strength. If your student has options at larger state programs like the University of Arkansas, compare carefully: those schools likely have more robust engineering infrastructure, larger alumni networks, and more predictable outcomes simply due to scale.
Where John Brown University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How John Brown 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Brown University | $67,911 | $81,976 | +21% |
| Franklin W Olin College of Engineering | $109,455 | $114,228 | +4% |
| University of California-Davis | $82,956 | $104,701 | +26% |
| Harvey Mudd College | $92,491 | $103,969 | +12% |
| Lafayette College | $76,507 | $92,618 | +21% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Engineering bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $30,832 | $67,911 | $81,976 | $25,488 | 0.38 | |
| $64,458 | $109,455 | $114,228 | $14,512 | 0.13 | |
| $66,255 | $92,491 | $103,969 | $22,240 | 0.24 | |
| $68,230 | $86,416 | $87,937 | $14,500 | 0.17 | |
| $15,247 | $82,956 | $104,701 | $15,000 | 0.18 | |
| $41,010 | $78,211 | — | $27,000 | 0.35 | |
| National Median | — | $67,911 | — | $26,056 | 0.38 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Engineers, All Other
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Mechatronics Engineers
Microsystems Engineers
Photonics Engineers
Robotics Engineers
Nanosystems Engineers
Wind Energy Engineers
Solar Energy Systems Engineers
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 John Brown University, approximately 21% 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 29 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.