Analysis
Michigan's construction sector offers strong opportunities for skilled technicians, and peer programs across the country suggest this associate degree could position graduates for a solid start. Based on national medians from similar programs, first-year earnings around $56,000 against estimated debt of roughly $12,500 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.22—meaning graduates would owe less than three months of their first year's salary. That's a manageable burden by any standard.
The catch is uncertainty. With only six comparable programs nationwide providing data, we're working with a limited picture of what Macomb's specific graduates achieve. Construction engineering technology roles can vary significantly—some lead to field supervision positions with strong earning potential, while others remain closer to entry-level technical work. Michigan's construction market is robust, particularly in the Detroit metro area where Macomb is located, but individual outcomes will depend heavily on the specific skills emphasized in the program and local employer relationships.
For families comfortable with some ambiguity, the fundamentals look reasonable: an affordable community college credential in a field with real demand. The key questions to ask Macomb directly are about job placement rates, which employers hire their graduates, and whether the program includes hands-on experience or internships that might give your child a competitive edge in the local market.
Where Macomb Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all construction engineering technologies associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Construction Engineering Technologies associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,600 | $55,979* | — | $12,563* | — | |
| $5,774 | $76,154* | $90,703 | $12,000* | 0.16 | |
| $6,718 | $75,253* | $69,774 | $12,000* | 0.16 | |
| $12,799 | $67,439* | $78,325 | $24,709* | 0.37 | |
| $17,940 | $44,518* | $40,651 | $16,095* | 0.36 | |
| $6,694 | $44,162* | $52,517 | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $55,978* | — | $12,562* | 0.22 |
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 Macomb Community College, approximately 33% 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 6 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.