Precision Metal Working at Midwest Technical Institute-Missouri

This precision metal working program delivers mediocre returns that should give cost-conscious parents pause. At $31,630 in first-year earnings, graduates earn about $5,000 less than the national median for similar programs and $3,200 below Missouri's state median. The program ranks in just the 28th percentile nationally and 40th percentile within Missouri—meaning most comparable programs produce better outcomes.

The financial picture isn't catastrophic but lacks compelling value. With $9,500 in typical debt and a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.30, the burden is manageable compared to many college programs. However, the modest 7% earnings growth over four years suggests limited career advancement potential. When Missouri schools like Ranken Technical College produce graduates earning $45,000+ in the same field, this program's performance looks particularly weak.

For families prioritizing affordability and quick workforce entry, the low debt load offers some appeal. But given that 23 Missouri schools offer this program and several significantly outperform Midwest Technical Institute, your child would likely be better served applying to higher-performing alternatives like Ranken or Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City, which deliver substantially better earnings outcomes in the same timeframe.