Electromechanical Instrumentation and Maintenance Technologies/Technicians at Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology

Spartan College's electromechanical program lands right at Oklahoma's median for earnings but charges significantly more debt than most in-state alternatives. While graduates start at $36,866—barely above the state median of $36,618—they're carrying 30% more debt than typical Oklahoma students in this field. That 0.48 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't alarming on its own, but the national context tells a more sobering story: this program ranks in just the 11th percentile nationally, with graduates earning $14,000 less than the national median.

The silver lining is modest but real: debt loads here are lighter than 90% of electromechanical programs nationwide, and earnings do grow 13% by year four. If your child is set on staying in Oklahoma's technical job market, this won't bury them in debt. However, seven Oklahoma schools offer this certificate, and at least one (Tulsa Welding School) delivers comparable earnings with less financial burden.

This program makes sense only if Spartan offers specific connections to Tulsa-area employers that matter to your family, or if other local options don't fit your child's schedule. Otherwise, the combination of below-average earnings and above-state-average debt suggests you should exhaust alternatives first. The 13% earnings growth is encouraging but doesn't offset starting so far behind national peers.