Analysis
In Oklahoma, automotive technology programs typically produce stronger outcomes than the national picture suggests for this field. While Rose State's specific graduate earnings aren't available, the state median of $55,088 sits well above the national benchmark of $42,896βbut it's unclear where this program falls within that range. The estimated debt of $11,425 based on comparable community colleges would create a manageable burden if graduates land near the state average, but that's a significant "if" without program-specific data.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27 assumes national-level starting pay, which may be conservative for Oklahoma's automotive market. Nearby Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology reports first-year earnings of $55,088 for their auto tech graduates, suggesting Rose State students could potentially earn 28% more than the national estimate if they achieve similar placement. However, without knowing Rose State's actual job placement rates, employer partnerships, or certification pass rates, it's difficult to gauge whether their graduates capture that Oklahoma premium or struggle to compete.
For parents, the key question is whether Rose State can deliver outcomes closer to Oklahoma's stronger state average rather than the weaker national median. Ask the program directly about recent graduate placement, average starting wages with local employers, and ASE certification ratesβthose concrete details matter more than estimated figures when actual data isn't available.
Where Rose State College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all vehicle maintenance and repair technologies associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies associates's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,032 | $42,896* | β | $11,425* | β | |
| $5,774 | $55,088* | $64,411 | $11,425* | 0.21 | |
| National Median | β | $42,896* | β | $12,000* | 0.28 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with vehicle maintenance and repair technologies graduates
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians
Avionics Technicians
Aircraft Mechanics and Service Technicians
Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers, Transportation Equipment
Electronic Equipment Installers and Repairers, Motor Vehicles
Bus and Truck Mechanics and Diesel Engine Specialists
Automotive Body and Related Repairers
Automotive Glass Installers and Repairers
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics
Motorboat Mechanics and Service Technicians
Motorcycle Mechanics
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 Rose State College, approximately 29% 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 143 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.