Civil Engineering at Tennessee Technological University

Tennessee Tech's civil engineering program starts graduates at $63,577—about 9% below the national median but roughly in line with Tennessee's typical outcomes for this field. While the program sits at just the 40th percentile statewide, the actual dollar difference from top Tennessee programs is minimal: you're looking at $1,800 less than UT-Chattanooga grads earn. For a family weighing the 83% admission rate and likely lower cost of attendance at Tennessee Tech versus flagship alternatives, that gap matters less than the debt picture.

The $20,870 median debt sits comfortably below both state and national averages, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33—meaning graduates owe roughly four months' salary. That's manageable territory for an engineering degree. The concerning element is the 4% earnings growth over four years, which barely keeps pace with inflation. Civil engineering salaries typically climb more substantially as professionals gain licensure and project management experience, so this flat trajectory suggests either industry-specific constraints in the region or that many graduates may be leaving the field.

For Tennessee families seeking an affordable engineering credential, Tennessee Tech delivers reasonable value—the debt burden is light and starting salaries cover the bills. Just understand you're buying access to the profession at a fair price, not a premium program that will accelerate your child's career trajectory. If they're committed to staying in Tennessee and working in civil engineering, the numbers work.