Median Earnings (1yr)
$60,381
95th percentile (60th in KY)
Median Debt
$8,396
30% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.14
Manageable
Sample Size
56
Adequate data

Analysis

This under-the-radar program significantly outperforms most electrical technology programs nationally, with first-year earnings of $60,381 placing graduates in the 95th percentile—well above the national median of $38,804. The debt load of $8,396 translates to a remarkably manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.14, meaning graduates need roughly seven weeks of earnings to cover their total borrowing. While it ranks at the 60th percentile among Kentucky programs (with Bluegrass Community and Technical College posting slightly higher earnings), this certificate still delivers strong value in absolute terms.

The debt picture requires some attention—at the 80th percentile nationally, this program carries more debt than most certificate programs in the field. However, the strong earnings largely offset this concern. With graduates earning about $20,000 more than the typical electrical technology certificate holder nationally, the financial trajectory remains solid even with slightly elevated borrowing.

For students considering a quick pathway into electrical work, this certificate offers a compelling trade: modest debt for above-average earnings within a year of completion. The program appears to connect graduates with quality local employers in Bowling Green's manufacturing sector, making it a practical choice for those who want to enter the workforce quickly without accumulating significant debt.

Where Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all electrical engineering technologies/technicians certificate's programs nationally

Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical CollegeOther electrical engineering technologies/technicians programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College graduates compare to all programs nationally

Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College graduates earn $60k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all electrical engineering technologies/technicians certificate programs nationally.

Compare to Similar Programs in Kentucky

Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians certificate's programs at peer institutions in Kentucky (10 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College$60,381—$8,3960.14
Bluegrass Community and Technical College$69,924—$7,0000.10
Big Sandy Community and Technical College$31,217———
National Median$38,804—$11,9760.31

Other Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians Programs in Kentucky

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Kentucky schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Bluegrass Community and Technical College
Lexington
$4,706$69,924$7,000
Big Sandy Community and Technical College
Prestonsburg
$4,656$31,217—

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 Southcentral Kentucky Community and Technical College, approximately 32% 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 56 graduates with reported earnings and 35 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.