Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians at Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg State's Industrial Production Technologies program produces graduates who earn $64,703 right out of college—nearly $5,000 above the national median for this degree. With debt of just $22,250, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34 means graduates face less than five months of gross salary in loans, a manageable figure that puts most families at ease. While Kansas only has three schools offering this program, Pittsburg State holds its own at the 60th percentile statewide.

The earnings trajectory looks solid, with median pay climbing to $76,678 by year four—a 19% increase that suggests these technical skills translate into career advancement opportunities. Graduates are performing better than 64% of their peers nationally, though they haven't quite reached the top quartile ($68,717). The program serves a largely middle-income student body at an accessible institution, making this a practical pathway into manufacturing and production management.

For families weighing technical degrees, this program delivers immediate earning power without excessive debt burden. The moderate sample size suggests a stable program, and the combination of below-median debt with above-median earnings creates a favorable financial foundation for graduates entering Kansas's manufacturing sector.