Agricultural Mechanization at North Dakota State College of Science

North Dakota State College of Science graduates this program with starting salaries 15% above the national average and remarkably low debt at $12,553—a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.20 means graduates owe only about two months' salary. That's an exceptionally strong financial position for entering the agricultural equipment field. The school ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for earnings in this program, putting graduates well ahead of peers from most other agricultural mechanization programs across the country.

The slight earnings dip from $62,531 to $60,772 between years one and four isn't alarming in this field—it likely reflects normal variation in agricultural cycles and overtime availability rather than career decline. With such minimal debt, graduates have immediate financial flexibility whether they pursue equipment dealership work, farm machinery operation, or precision agriculture roles. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) suggests reliable data from a steady program.

For families in North Dakota or neighboring states where agricultural mechanization skills are in constant demand, this represents one of the best associate degree values available. Your child walks out with high-demand technical skills, minimal debt burden, and immediate earning power that rivals many bachelor's degree holders—all in two years.