Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians at Montana State University-Northern

Montana State University-Northern's electrical engineering technology program starts students at $43,000—well below the national median of $55,000 for similar programs. However, that initial gap narrows considerably as graduates gain experience, with earnings climbing 28% to nearly $55,000 by year four. This earnings trajectory suggests employers value the hands-on skills graduates develop, even if entry-level positions pay modestly.

The debt picture provides important balance here. At just under $11,000, graduates carry roughly $4,000 less debt than the national median for this field, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.25 that's quite manageable. With limited electrical technology programs in Montana (only three total), this ranks at the 60th percentile statewide—essentially middle-of-the-pack for the state but below national standards. The small sample size warrants caution, but the fundamentals suggest graduates can handle their debt burden even during those lower-earning early years.

For families weighing this program, the value proposition hinges on geography and career plans. If your child intends to work in Montana or rural markets where wages run lower, this program delivers relevant training at a reasonable price. Those eyeing higher-paying metro markets elsewhere might find the initial earnings lag more significant, though the strong growth trajectory indicates the skills translate across settings once graduates establish themselves.