Precision Systems Maintenance and Repair Technologies at Sonoran Desert Institute
Associate's Degree
sdi.eduAnalysis
With only two schools offering this specialized program in Arizona, Sonoran Desert Institute stands out as a rare option that delivers exceptional national performance. Graduates earn $49,349 in their first year—placing them in the 95th percentile nationally for precision systems programs—and see strong growth to $61,770 by year four. The debt load of $16,400 is actually below the national average for this field, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.33, which is excellent for any technical program.
The numbers become even more impressive when viewed nationally. While this program ranks at the 60th percentile within Arizona (where there's limited competition), it dramatically outperforms the national median of $44,665 for first-year earnings. The 25% earnings growth over four years suggests graduates are building valuable, marketable skills in precision systems maintenance—a field critical to manufacturing, aerospace, and other technical industries.
For parents considering this program, the combination of below-average debt and above-average earnings creates a compelling financial picture. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates gives confidence in these outcomes, and the specialized nature of the training appears to translate into real career advancement. This represents solid preparation for a technical career with strong earning potential and manageable debt.
Where Sonoran Desert Institute Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all precision systems maintenance and repair technologies associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Sonoran Desert Institute graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sonoran Desert Institute | $49,349 | $61,770 | +25% |
| Colorado School of Trades | $39,981 | $37,234 | -7% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Precision Systems Maintenance and Repair Technologies associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,280 | $49,349 | $61,770 | $16,400 | 0.33 | |
| — | $39,981 | $37,234 | $20,000 | 0.50 | |
| National Median | — | $44,665 | — | $18,200 | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with precision systems maintenance and repair technologies graduates
Jewelers and Precious Stone and Metal Workers
Gem and Diamond Workers
Timing Device Assemblers and Adjusters
Camera and Photographic Equipment Repairers
Musical Instrument Repairers and Tuners
Watch and Clock Repairers
Precision Instrument and Equipment Repairers, All Other
Locksmiths and Safe Repairers
Installation, Maintenance, and Repair Workers, All Other
Geothermal 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 Sonoran Desert Institute, approximately 27% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 389 graduates with reported earnings and 377 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.