Engineering Technologies/Technicians at North Carolina A & T State University

North Carolina A&T's Engineering Technologies program graduates earn solidly in the $60,000s starting out, climbing to nearly $74,000 by year four—respectable numbers that track slightly below both the national median ($66,626) and North Carolina's median ($67,356) for similar programs. However, the real advantage here is the debt load: at $31,000, graduates carry about 17% more debt than the state median but significantly less than most comparable programs nationally, landing this program in the 5th percentile for debt burden. That 0.49 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly six months' salary, which is quite manageable.

The 18% earnings growth over four years suggests steady career progression, and serving a student body where half receive Pell grants, A&T delivers solid economic mobility. That said, the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could swing considerably year to year, and this program ranks in the 40th percentile among North Carolina's four engineering technology programs—middle of the pack in a small field. East Carolina's program shows graduates can earn more ($72,000) within the state.

For families weighing in-state options, this represents a practical path into engineering technology careers without crushing debt. The earnings may not lead the state, but the financial foundation is sound enough to build a career on—especially for students who might not have access to pricier alternatives.