Est. Earnings (1yr)
$45,434
Est. from national median (32 programs)
Est. Median Debt
$12,984
Est. from national median (21 programs)

Analysis

North Central State College's drafting program appears to follow a pattern common to technical associate degrees nationally: moderate debt paired with immediate earning potential. Based on what similar programs across the country report, graduates typically earn around $45,400 in their first year while carrying roughly $13,000 in debt—a 0.29 ratio that falls well within the manageable range for technical training.

The challenge here is uncertainty. With 17 schools offering this credential in Ohio, outcomes can vary significantly based on local industry connections and curriculum specifics. The national figures suggest this field provides solid entry-level technical employment, but we can't verify whether North Central State's specific program performs above, at, or below that benchmark. What we do know is that drafting and design technology typically leads to steady work in manufacturing, architecture, and engineering firms—sectors with established presence in Ohio.

For an anxious parent, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value if your student is committed to technical work and this field specifically. The debt burden is modest enough that even if actual outcomes fall somewhat short of the national estimate, graduates should be able to manage repayment. However, you're making this decision with less information than ideal—consider visiting the program, speaking with recent graduates if possible, and confirming job placement rates directly with the school before committing.

Where North Central State College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all drafting/design engineering technologies/technicians associates's programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs Nationally

Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians associates's programs at top institutions nationally

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)*Earnings (4yr)Median Debt*Debt/Earnings
North Central State CollegeMansfield$4,624$45,434*—$12,984*—
Utah Valley UniversityOrem$6,270$55,893*$55,521—*—
Dunwoody College of TechnologyMinneapolis$25,659$55,512*$63,409$20,625*0.37
Portland Community CollegePortland$5,040$54,198*$53,078—*—
Northcentral Technical CollegeWausau$3,861$53,105*$53,278$8,000*0.15
Austin Community College DistrictAustin$2,550$50,584*$51,524$14,000*0.28
National Median—$45,434*—$13,250*0.29
* Estimated from similar programs

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with drafting/design engineering technologies/technicians graduates

Architectural and Civil Drafters

Prepare detailed drawings of architectural and structural features of buildings or drawings and topographical relief maps used in civil engineering projects, such as highways, bridges, and public works. Use knowledge of building materials, engineering practices, and mathematics to complete drawings.

$65,380/yrJobs growth:Associate's degree

Electrical and Electronics Drafters

Prepare wiring diagrams, circuit board assembly diagrams, and layout drawings used for the manufacture, installation, or repair of electrical equipment.

$65,380/yrJobs growth:Associate's degree

Mechanical Drafters

Prepare detailed working diagrams of machinery and mechanical devices, including dimensions, fastening methods, and other engineering information.

$65,380/yrJobs growth:Associate's degree

Drafters, All Other

All drafters not listed separately.

$65,380/yrJobs growth:Associate's degree
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 North Central State College, approximately 24% 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 32 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.