Analysis
In New Jersey's tech landscape, Rowan's Computer Engineering Technologies program appears positioned in the middle tier, with comparable programs nationally suggesting first-year earnings around $48,800. That's notably below what traditional computer engineering graduates command—think $65,000-plus—but the program seems designed as a more applied, hands-on track rather than pure engineering theory.
The estimated debt of $25,100 creates a manageable ratio of about 0.51, meaning roughly half a year's earnings to repay loans. This is solid compared to many bachelor's programs, though it's worth noting that national peers in this field typically carry higher debt loads (around $31,000 median). Whether that reflects Rowan's affordability or different program structures among the comparison schools is unclear given the limited data. The caveat: these figures draw from a small pool—just 29 programs nationally for earnings estimates and 8 for debt—so there's real variance possible.
The practical concern is that "technologies/technicians" credentials don't always translate as clearly to employers as straight "computer engineering" degrees, potentially limiting advancement opportunities. If your child thrives with practical, applied learning and wants to stay in New Jersey where tech jobs are plentiful, the debt burden seems reasonable. But if they're considering traditional software engineering or higher-paying tech roles, exploring how this specific degree compares to Rowan's computer science or engineering programs would be essential before committing.
Where Rowan University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering technologies/technicians bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $15,700 | $48,829* | — | $25,126* | — | |
| $61,884 | $94,722* | $119,498 | $23,582* | 0.25 | |
| $12,687 | $82,242* | $93,175 | $31,000* | 0.38 | |
| $4,656 | $75,836* | — | $15,539* | 0.20 | |
| $57,016 | $73,355* | — | $30,750* | 0.42 | |
| $35,558 | $70,403* | — | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $48,829* | — | $31,000* | 0.63 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer engineering technologies/technicians graduates
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Programmers
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians
Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other
Non-Destructive Testing Specialists
Photonics Technicians
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 Rowan University, approximately 31% 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 29 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.