Environmental Control Technologies/Technicians at Northwestern Technological Institute
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
Analysis
This Environmental Control Technologies program at Northwestern Technological Institute delivers solid immediate returns but shows concerning long-term trends. At $36,015 in first-year earnings with only $9,500 in debt, graduates face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.26—well below problematic levels. The program performs better than average within Michigan, ranking in the 60th percentile among the state's 13 similar programs.
However, the earnings trajectory raises red flags. Unlike most career-focused programs that show growth over time, graduates actually earn slightly less ($35,264) four years out than they do immediately after graduation—a 2% decline that's unusual for technical fields. This suggests the program may be training students for entry-level positions without strong advancement potential.
The low debt load partially offsets the earnings concerns, and with 81% of students receiving Pell grants, this program clearly serves students who need affordable pathways to employment. For families seeking immediate job placement with minimal debt, this delivers on that promise. However, given the earnings stagnation, parents should consider whether their child might be better served by programs that offer stronger long-term growth potential, even if they require slightly more upfront investment.
Where Northwestern Technological Institute Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all environmental control technologies/technicians certificate's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Northwestern Technological Institute graduates compare to all programs nationally
Northwestern Technological Institute graduates earn $36k, placing them in the 50th percentile of all environmental control technologies/technicians certificate programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Environmental Control Technologies/Technicians certificate's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (13 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Northwestern Technological Institute | $36,015 | $35,264 | $9,500 | 0.26 |
| National Median | $36,015 | — | $11,250 | 0.31 |
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 Northwestern Technological Institute, approximately 81% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 718 graduates with reported earnings and 715 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.