Analysis
Miami Dade College offers one of the more affordable pathways into electrical engineering technology in Florida. With estimated debt around $26,220—significantly lower than the state median of $32,680—this bachelor's program appears positioned to serve its substantial population of Pell grant recipients without crushing financial burden. Similar programs nationally suggest first-year earnings near $67,395, which would put the debt-to-earnings ratio at a manageable 0.39, meaning graduates might expect to owe less than four months of their first year's salary.
The earnings estimate aligns with what nearby Valencia College reports for its graduates ($64,538) and matches the national benchmark, suggesting competitive career outcomes. For a community college stepping into bachelor's degree territory, this performance is noteworthy—students aren't sacrificing earning potential by staying local. Florida's tight job market for electrical engineering technicians, with only four bachelor's programs statewide, likely helps graduates command solid wages despite the program's modest debt load.
The key advantage here is financial: lower debt than peer programs while maintaining comparable earning power. For families weighing whether their student should pursue engineering technology at a traditional university versus a community college, this program demonstrates that the more expensive option isn't necessarily the better investment. The estimated figures suggest Miami Dade delivers professional credentials without the premium price tag.
Where Miami Dade College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all electrical engineering technologies/technicians bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (4 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2,838 | $67,395* | — | $26,220* | — | |
| $17,488 | $67,395* | $75,968 | $53,062* | 0.79 | |
| $2,474 | $64,538* | $76,021 | $12,299* | 0.19 | |
| National Median | — | $67,395* | — | $27,558* | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with electrical engineering technologies/technicians graduates
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay
Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
Robotics Technicians
Electrical and Electronics Drafters
Calibration Technologists and Technicians
Sound Engineering Technicians
Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other
Non-Destructive Testing Specialists
Photonics Technicians
Disc Jockeys, Except Radio
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 Miami Dade College, approximately 45% 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 46 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.