Engineering at UCNJ Union College of Union County New Jersey

Union County College's engineering associate's program shows a dramatic earnings trajectory that's worth understanding carefully. While graduates start at just $27,813—well below the $30,518 national median—they jump to nearly $70,000 by year four, a 151% increase that suggests this program successfully prepares students for career advancement. Among New Jersey's eight engineering associate's programs, this one ranks in the 60th percentile despite its modest start.

The debt picture is exceptional: at $8,508, graduates owe less than 85% of schools nationally and carry a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.31 by year one. For a working-class pathway into engineering (44% of students receive Pell grants), this combination of low debt and strong mid-term earnings creates real opportunity. The first-year figure likely reflects many students working their way into full-time technical roles after graduation.

The caveat matters here—with under 30 graduates in the data, these numbers could shift significantly. But if you're considering an affordable engineering foundation in New Jersey, particularly for a student who might need to work part-time initially, the low debt burden and strong four-year outcomes suggest this program delivers on its promise as a technical career launchpad.