Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians at Kirkwood Community College

First-year earnings of $60,210 make this program a standout performer in a field that already offers strong associate-degree returns. That figure puts Kirkwood in the 79th percentile nationally for electrical engineering technology programs—well above the typical $54,852 median—and matches the Iowa state median. While the debt estimate of roughly $12,000 is based on comparable programs at similar community colleges rather than Kirkwood's specific graduates, that borrowed amount appears manageable either way: the resulting 0.20 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates would owe about two months' salary, giving them considerable financial breathing room as they launch their careers.

The program faces stiff competition within Iowa, particularly from Indian Hills Community College where graduates earn nearly $8,400 more in their first year. Still, Kirkwood's combination of strong earnings and what appears to be reasonable borrowing costs makes it a viable path into skilled technical work. For context, even if actual debt runs higher than the estimate (Iowa's state median for this program is $18,010), the earnings would still comfortably cover typical loan payments.

This looks like a solid investment for students interested in hands-on electrical work, though families should verify actual borrowing costs directly with Kirkwood's financial aid office and understand they're choosing a strong program that isn't quite Iowa's leader in the field.