Drafting/Design Engineering Technologies/Technicians at Remington College-Online Dallas

At $29,323 first-year earnings and $12,965 in debt, this online program from Remington College delivers numbers that sit exactly at the national median—but that's not necessarily reassuring. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44 looks manageable on paper, yet graduates face an uncomfortable reality: their earnings actually decline to $28,432 by year four. While this program ranks in the 60th percentile among Texas drafting programs, that comparison reveals more about the state's crowded field than any particular strength here. Austin Community College graduates earn $16,000 more annually with similar credentials, highlighting how much outcomes can vary even within the same state.

The student body composition tells an important part of the story—89% receive Pell grants, indicating this program primarily serves low-income students who need credentials to translate directly into stable income growth. That makes the earnings decline particularly concerning. Drafting skills typically command better compensation as professionals gain experience, so flat or falling wages suggest graduates may struggle to advance or retain employment in the field.

For families weighing this investment: the low debt load prevents disaster, but sub-$30,000 earnings that don't improve over time won't build financial stability. If your child is set on online learning for drafting, investigate whether other distance programs show better four-year outcomes. If in-person attendance is possible, Austin Community College's results suggest a traditional classroom environment might deliver significantly better returns in this specific field.