Military Technologies and Applied Sciences at Thomas Edison State University

Thomas Edison State's military technologies program stands out for its exceptionally low debt burden—just $7,500, which ranks in the 5th percentile nationally—but the earnings trajectory deserves closer scrutiny. While first-year earnings of $75,492 place graduates in the 95th percentile nationally, income actually drops to $69,645 by year four, an 8% decline that's unusual for technical programs. Given the military focus, this pattern might reflect students transitioning from active duty or contractor roles into different career paths, though with fewer than 30 graduates tracked, it's hard to draw firm conclusions.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.10 is outstanding—graduates owe just over one month's salary, making this financially low-risk even if earnings remain flat or decline. However, the 60th percentile ranking among New Jersey programs (though this institution is the only one in the state offering this specific program) suggests the earnings advantage may be more about the field itself than this particular program's quality. For students already working in military or defense contexts who need credentials, this could work well. For those hoping this degree will launch a military career, the earnings decline pattern raises questions about whether it's opening doors or simply credentialing existing experience.

This makes sense primarily for students with military backgrounds seeking affordable degree completion while working, not as a pathway into the field.