Analysis
NUC University's electrical engineering technology program operates in a fundamentally different economic context than mainland programs. While earnings of around $28,500 four years after graduation place this program in just the 5th percentile nationally—less than half the national median of $54,852—it actually ranks in the 60th percentile among Puerto Rico's 13 programs in this field. The $12,000 debt burden is manageable at 0.45 times first-year earnings, notably lower than both the national and PR medians.
The real question is whether this program provides adequate preparation for the local job market. The modest 7% earnings growth over four years suggests graduates reach their ceiling quickly, and the absolute earnings figures are concerning even accounting for Puerto Rico's lower cost of living. However, for students committed to staying in Puerto Rico and working in technical trades, this represents a relatively affordable credential that performs better than most local alternatives. The 71% Pell Grant rate indicates this serves primarily lower-income students who may have limited options.
For families considering this program, understand that it's designed for the Puerto Rican market, where these earnings may be more viable than they appear on paper. If your student is considering mainland opportunities, they'll face significant earning disadvantages compared to graduates from stateside programs. The low debt makes this less risky than many alternatives, but the earning potential remains constrained regardless of location.
Where NUC University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all electrical engineering technologies/technicians associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How NUC University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| NUC University | $26,836 | $28,568 | +6% |
| Bismarck State College | $89,460 | $97,691 | +9% |
| Victoria College | $63,908 | $85,672 | +34% |
| Orangeburg Calhoun Technical College | $67,406 | $79,181 | +17% |
| Zane State College | $47,946 | $76,777 | +60% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,054 | $26,836 | $28,568 | $12,000 | 0.45 | |
| $4,670 | $109,198 | — | $11,083 | 0.10 | |
| $5,195 | $89,460 | $97,691 | $14,236 | 0.16 | |
| $4,706 | $71,070 | — | — | — | |
| $5,639 | $69,797 | — | — | — | |
| $4,872 | $68,590 | $62,046 | $10,669 | 0.16 | |
| National Median | — | $54,852 | — | $14,710 | 0.27 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with electrical engineering technologies/technicians graduates
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay
Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians
Robotics Technicians
Electrical and Electronics Drafters
Calibration Technologists and Technicians
Sound Engineering Technicians
Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other
Non-Destructive Testing Specialists
Photonics Technicians
Disc Jockeys, Except Radio
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 NUC University, approximately 71% 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 37 graduates with reported earnings and 53 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.