Median Earnings (1yr)
$40,778
75th percentile (60th in CO)
Median Debt
$14,553
29% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.36
Manageable
Sample Size
765
Adequate data

Analysis

Lincoln College of Technology-Denver delivers strong earnings outcomes for its Environmental Control Technologies program, with graduates earning $40,778 in their first year—landing at the 75th percentile nationally and 60th percentile within Colorado. While this matches the state median, it significantly outperforms the national average of $36,015, suggesting the program provides solid technical training in a field with decent demand.

The debt picture is particularly attractive. At $14,553, graduates carry substantially less debt than typical Colorado programs in this field (which average $16,876) and rank in the 5th percentile nationally for debt burden. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 means graduates can reasonably expect to pay off their education debt within a few years. Earnings growth of 18% from year one to year four shows clear career progression potential, with four-year earnings reaching $48,053.

However, it's worth noting that Front Range Community College graduates in this field earn significantly more at $70,888, suggesting location or employer connections may impact outcomes. With 46% of students receiving Pell grants, this program serves a diverse student body and appears to provide good value for working-class families. For students seeking quick entry into environmental technology careers without crushing debt, this program offers a solid return on investment, though exploring all Colorado options would be wise.

Where Lincoln College of Technology-Denver Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all environmental control technologies/technicians certificate's programs nationally

Lincoln College of Technology-DenverOther environmental control technologies/technicians programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Lincoln College of Technology-Denver graduates compare to all programs nationally

Lincoln College of Technology-Denver graduates earn $41k, placing them in the 75th percentile of all environmental control technologies/technicians certificate programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado

Environmental Control Technologies/Technicians certificate's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (8 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Lincoln College of Technology-Denver$40,778$48,053$14,5530.36
Front Range Community College$70,888$19,2000.27
Pickens Technical College$40,146
National Median$36,015$11,2500.31

Other Environmental Control Technologies/Technicians Programs in Colorado

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Colorado schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Front Range Community College
Westminster
$4,740$70,888$19,200
Pickens Technical College
Aurora
$4,930$40,146

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 Lincoln College of Technology-Denver, approximately 46% 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 765 graduates with reported earnings and 774 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.