Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Lincoln College of Technology-Denver

Lincoln College of Technology-Denver's automotive program delivers exactly average national outcomes, but falls short compared to other Colorado options—a concerning pattern given the program's higher debt burden.

While the $35,905 first-year earnings hit the national median precisely, this program ranks in just the 40th percentile among Colorado's 19 automotive programs, with graduates earning about $3,500 less than the state median of $39,430. More problematic is the debt picture: students graduate owing $13,560, which is $3,100 more than the Colorado average and $2,560 above the national median. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38 is manageable but not impressive when state competitors like Aims Community College and Front Range Community College produce graduates earning $42,000+ with lower debt loads.

The 17% earnings growth over four years ($42,123 by year four) shows decent career progression, and the robust sample size makes these numbers reliable. However, when quality community colleges in Colorado consistently outperform this program at lower cost, the value proposition becomes questionable. Unless there are compelling reasons like scheduling flexibility or specific certifications, Colorado families should strongly consider the state's community college alternatives that deliver better earnings with less debt.