Analysis
Based on comparable construction engineering technology programs nationwide, graduates can expect first-year earnings around $72,240—a solid starting point for a technical bachelor's degree. The estimated debt load of roughly $25,000 translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34, meaning a graduate would owe about four months' salary. For construction-related fields, where practical skills often matter more than institutional prestige, these figures suggest reasonable financial footing.
The challenge here is context. As the only Construction Engineering Technologies bachelor's program in New Hampshire, Keene State operates without direct in-state competition, making it difficult to assess whether their specific outcomes match, exceed, or fall short of these national estimates. The 89% admission rate indicates accessibility, but tells us nothing about how well the program connects students to New Hampshire's construction industry or whether local employers value this particular credential.
For parents, the estimated numbers look workable—a debt burden that shouldn't dominate a graduate's early career. But you're essentially betting on Keene State's execution based on what similar programs produce elsewhere. Before committing, verify the program's track record with New Hampshire contractors and developers, understand their internship pipeline, and confirm whether graduates actually secure jobs at these salary levels. The financial model works if the outcomes align with these national estimates; the risk is that a small program at a less-known institution might not deliver the same results as larger, established construction technology programs.
Where Keene State College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all construction engineering technologies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Construction Engineering Technologies bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $14,710 | $72,240* | — | $24,745* | — | |
| $7,008 | $89,003* | $100,265 | $17,866* | 0.20 | |
| $8,064 | $88,648* | — | $21,104* | 0.24 | |
| $7,439 | $87,960* | $97,515 | $16,067* | 0.18 | |
| $8,290 | $81,608* | — | —* | — | |
| $12,997 | $80,404* | — | $28,550* | 0.36 | |
| National Median | — | $72,240* | — | $24,744* | 0.34 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with construction engineering technologies graduates
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 Keene State College, approximately 24% 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 national median of 45 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.