Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians at McPherson College

McPherson College's mechanical engineering technology program produces graduates earning just $42,278 in their first year—well below both the Kansas median of $49,756 and the national median of $62,503. This places graduates in the bottom 5% nationally among similar programs, and while the 25th percentile within Kansas sounds marginally better, remember there are only two schools offering this degree in the state. Pittsburg State graduates earn $15,000 more annually right out of the gate, a substantial difference that compounds over a career.

The debt load of $27,000 is typical for this field, resulting in a manageable 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio. That's the silver lining here—students aren't taking on excessive loans for what they're getting. However, "manageable debt" doesn't solve the underlying problem: these earnings are simply too low for a bachelor's degree in an engineering-related field. At $42,278, graduates are earning roughly what many associate degree holders in technical fields make, raising questions about the return on four years of study.

For Kansas families, this is a tough sell. If your student is set on mechanical engineering technology and staying in-state, Pittsburg State offers demonstrably better outcomes. The moderate sample size suggests these numbers are reasonably reliable, not just a statistical fluke. Unless McPherson offers specific connections or specializations that directly address these earning gaps, parents should scrutinize what makes this program worth choosing over the clear alternative within Kansas.