Analysis
With first-year earnings estimated around $68,000 and debt near $26,500, this engineering degree shows the financial fundamentals you'd hope to see—a debt burden that's less than 40% of first-year income. While these figures come from comparable bachelor's engineering programs nationally rather than Northwest Nazarene's specific graduates, they align with typical outcomes for the field: engineers generally command strong starting salaries that make moderate debt loads manageable.
The limited data here reflects the program's small size, not a quality concern. Idaho has only two engineering programs total, and Northwest Nazarene serves a modest student population, which means fewer graduates to track. The engineering job market in Idaho's Treasure Valley—where Northwest Nazarene is located—has grown considerably with Boise's tech expansion, potentially offering local opportunities. However, engineering graduates often relocate for the best positions, so your student should think broadly about where they're willing to work after graduation.
The financial picture suggests workable numbers if the degree opens doors to actual engineering roles. The key uncertainty is whether this specific program delivers the same outcomes as its peers. Before committing, verify the program's ABET accreditation status (critical for licensure), talk to current students about internship pipelines, and confirm placement rates in actual engineering positions versus general technical roles.
Where Northwest Nazarene University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Engineering bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $39,370 | $67,911* | — | $26,459* | — | |
| $64,458 | $109,455* | $114,228 | $14,512* | 0.13 | |
| $66,255 | $92,491* | $103,969 | $22,240* | 0.24 | |
| $68,230 | $86,416* | $87,937 | $14,500* | 0.17 | |
| $15,247 | $82,956* | $104,701 | $15,000* | 0.18 | |
| $41,010 | $78,211* | — | $27,000* | 0.35 | |
| National Median | — | $67,911* | — | $26,056* | 0.38 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Engineers, All Other
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Mechatronics Engineers
Microsystems Engineers
Photonics Engineers
Robotics Engineers
Nanosystems Engineers
Wind Energy Engineers
Solar Energy Systems Engineers
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 Northwest Nazarene 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 47 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.