Materials Engineering at University of Alabama at Birmingham

First-year earnings of $69,498 place UAB's Materials Engineering program at the 60th percentile within Alabama but only the 34th percentile nationally—a gap worth understanding. Given there are just two schools offering this major in the state, that state ranking has limited meaning. More telling is that comparable programs nationwide suggest first-year earnings around $74,000, putting UAB graduates roughly $4,500 below that benchmark. The 10% earnings growth to year four is modest compared to some engineering fields where experience commands steeper premiums.

The estimated debt of $23,125—derived from similar programs at UAB—produces a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33, which is manageable by engineering standards. Materials engineers with this debt level should be able to repay comfortably while building their careers. The question is whether the earnings trajectory justifies choosing UAB over higher-ranked programs if your child is competitive for admission elsewhere. That 34th percentile national ranking suggests UAB graduates may face stiffer competition for top-tier positions or starting salaries.

For Alabama families, particularly those receiving Pell grants (a third of UAB's student body), this program offers solid engineering credentials without crushing debt. But if your child has options at more nationally competitive engineering schools, the earnings data suggests those programs might deliver stronger return on investment in a field where reputation and alumni networks significantly influence career outcomes.