Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians at Minnesota State University-Mankato

With comparable certificate programs nationally showing first-year earnings around $38,800 and debt hovering near $9,400, the math here works in straightforward terms: graduates would owe roughly three months' salary. That's a manageable burden for a short-term credential, though it's worth noting these figures come from peer programs nationwide rather than Minnesota State-Mankato's specific outcomes.

The challenge is what happens next. Similar electrical engineering technology certificates nationally show significant earnings variation—top programs reach $57,000 in first-year earnings, suggesting the credential's value depends heavily on local industry connections and the specific skills employers need. Minnesota's manufacturing and tech sectors could support strong outcomes, but with eight schools offering this program statewide and no reported data to distinguish them, you're operating without clear evidence of which programs employers actually value.

For a short certificate that gets someone working quickly, the low estimated debt makes this a relatively low-risk option. But given the wide range of outcomes nationally and the lack of school-specific data, your child should prioritize programs where they can verify employer partnerships and job placement rates directly. An undergraduate certificate is most valuable as a stepping stone—either into immediate employment with a clear path forward or as foundation coursework toward an associate or bachelor's degree if the job market doesn't cooperate.