Median Earnings (1yr)
$38,994
51st percentile
40th percentile in Louisiana
Median Debt
$7,409
22% below national median

Analysis

South Louisiana Community College's electrical and power transmission program tracks closely with national benchmarks—graduates earn $38,994 after one year, just shy of the $38,716 national median. The debt picture looks strong at first glance with only $7,409 borrowed, but dig deeper: that's actually higher than 71% of similar programs nationally, and while Louisiana programs typically saddle students with $11,977 in debt, the state's median earnings also run slightly higher at $39,378. This program falls in the 40th percentile statewide for earnings, meaning six in ten Louisiana competitors deliver better results.

The 0.19 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than three months of salary—manageable by any measure. However, students here could earn essentially the same income at Fletcher Technical or Northshore Technical while building identical skills. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) suggests stable outcomes, and with 48% of students receiving Pell grants, this program serves working-class families looking for quick workforce entry.

For parents, this is a functional choice that gets students working in a stable trade without crushing debt, but it's not the standout option in Louisiana's community college system. If your child has admitted to multiple schools, compare the total costs carefully—the lower sticker price here might not translate to better value if nearby programs offer similar or better earnings potential.

Where South Louisiana Community College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all electrical and power transmission installers certificate's programs nationally

Earnings Distribution

How South Louisiana Community College graduates compare to all programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in Louisiana

Electrical and Power Transmission Installers certificate's programs at peer institutions in Louisiana (14 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
South Louisiana Community CollegeLafayette$4,210$38,994—$7,4090.19
Northshore Technical Community CollegeLacombe$4,203$39,824———
Fletcher Technical Community CollegeSchriever$4,219$39,762———
Delgado Community CollegeNew Orleans$4,678$30,212$21,369$11,9770.40
National Median—$38,716—$9,5000.25

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with electrical and power transmission installers graduates

Electrical Power-Line Installers and Repairers

Install or repair cables or wires used in electrical power or distribution systems. May erect poles and light or heavy duty transmission towers.

$92,560/yrJobs growth:High school diploma or equivalent

Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay

Inspect, test, repair, or maintain electrical equipment in generating stations, substations, and in-service relays.

$71,270/yrJobs growth:

Electricians

Install, maintain, and repair electrical wiring, equipment, and fixtures. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes. May install or service street lights, intercom systems, or electrical control systems.

$62,350/yrJobs growth:High school diploma or equivalent

First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers

Directly supervise and coordinate activities of construction or extraction workers.

Solar Energy Installation Managers

Direct work crews installing residential or commercial solar photovoltaic or thermal systems.

First-Line Supervisors of Mechanics, Installers, and Repairers

Directly supervise and coordinate the activities of mechanics, installers, and repairers. May also advise customers on recommended services. Excludes team or work leaders.

Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers

Install, program, maintain, and repair security and fire alarm wiring and equipment. Ensure that work is in accordance with relevant codes.

Signal and Track Switch Repairers

Install, inspect, test, maintain, or repair electric gate crossings, signals, signal equipment, track switches, section lines, or intercommunications systems within a railroad system.

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 South Louisiana Community College, approximately 48% 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 37 graduates with reported earnings and 22 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.