Est. Earnings (1yr)
$66,626
Est. from national median (14 programs)
Est. Median Debt
$24,736
Est. from national median (12 programs)

Analysis

When Kentucky programs in this field lack reported outcomes, national benchmarks become the best reference point. Across the country, engineering technology bachelor's programs typically produce first-year earnings around $67,000, with graduates carrying about $25,000 in debt—figures that closely align with what Morehead State's program appears to generate. That 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio falls comfortably within manageable territory, suggesting graduates could handle their loans on a technical professional's salary.

The challenge here isn't the numbers themselves but the uncertainty they represent. With only 49 schools nationally offering this credential and just two in Kentucky, these programs serve a specific niche in technical education that falls between traditional engineering degrees and associate-level technician training. Morehead State's 82% admission rate signals accessibility, though the lack of reported outcomes means parents can't see how this particular program's curriculum, industry connections, or regional employer relationships translate into actual graduate success.

For families considering this path, the estimated figures suggest reasonable financial outcomes if they materialize as predicted. However, you're making this decision somewhat blind—before committing, demand specifics from Morehead State about job placement rates, employer partnerships in Kentucky's manufacturing and industrial sectors, and where recent graduates actually landed. The difference between a program with strong regional connections and one struggling to place graduates won't show up in these estimates.

Where Morehead State University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all engineering technologies/technicians bachelors's programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs Nationally

Engineering Technologies/Technicians bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)*Earnings (4yr)Median Debt*Debt/Earnings
Morehead State UniversityMorehead$9,838$66,626*—$24,736*—
California State University Maritime AcademyVallejo$7,672$115,589*—$27,000*0.23
Maine Maritime AcademyCastine$14,746$98,488*$104,327$27,000*0.27
Daytona State CollegeDaytona Beach$3,106$73,572*$55,610$23,319*0.32
East Carolina UniversityGreenville$7,361$72,022*$78,175$22,115*0.31
Old Dominion UniversityNorfolk$12,262$70,620*$75,927$25,000*0.35
National Median—$66,626*—$25,000*0.38
* Estimated from similar programs
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 Morehead State University, approximately 29% 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 14 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.