Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Pearl River Community College

Mississippi's automotive technology landscape suggests a concerning reality for this program. While similar programs nationally point to first-year earnings around $42,900, the one Mississippi school with actual reported data—Itawamba Community College—shows graduates earning just $35,127. That $7,700 gap between what comparable programs nationwide produce and what Mississippi students actually see should make parents think twice about the regional market's capacity to support these credentials.

The estimated $11,425 in debt translates to a manageable 0.27 debt-to-earnings ratio if this program hits national earning patterns. But Mississippi's automotive repair sector appears to underpay compared to the national market, which means the real debt burden could feel heavier than these estimates suggest. Nearly half of Pearl River's students receive Pell grants, indicating many families here are already stretched financially—taking on debt for a credential that may lead to below-national wages compounds that vulnerability.

Here's the bottom line: if your child stays in Mississippi after graduation, the actual Itawamba data gives you a clearer picture than national estimates do. At $35,000, this field pays less than many trades requiring no degree at all. Before committing, investigate local shop wages directly and consider whether relocating to a stronger automotive market after graduation is realistic for your family.