Analysis
A Bachelor's in Construction Engineering Technologies from Pittsburg State appears positioned right in the middle of what similar programs nationwide typically deliver—around $72,000 in first-year earnings against roughly $25,000 in debt. That 0.34 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests graduates could theoretically pay off their loans with about four months of gross salary, a comfortable margin that reflects construction's steady demand for technical expertise.
The challenge is uncertainty. With small graduate cohorts triggering data suppression, we're working from national program averages rather than Pittsburg State's actual outcomes. Kansas State's reported figure of $74,253 for this field suggests the state market pays slightly above the national median, which could mean Pittsburg grads do similarly well—or it could mean KSU's program commands a premium. Without school-specific data, there's no way to know whether Pittsburg State's regional connections and hands-on curriculum translate to comparable placement rates and salaries.
For parents weighing this investment, the fundamental calculus looks sound based on peer programs: construction technology degrees generally produce solid returns with manageable debt. But recognize you're betting on Pittsburg State matching the national pattern without direct evidence. If your student has admission to KSU (where actual outcomes are known) or can visit both campuses to assess job placement support and industry partnerships, that comparison would clarify whether Pittsburg State delivers the typical return or falls short.
Where Pittsburg State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all construction engineering technologies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas
Construction Engineering Technologies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (2 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,008 | $72,240* | — | $24,745* | — | |
| $10,942 | $74,253* | $90,782 | $27,000* | 0.36 | |
| National Median | — | $72,240* | — | $24,744* | 0.34 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with construction engineering technologies graduates
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 Pittsburg State University, approximately 32% 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 45 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.