Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering at University of Arizona

University of Arizona engineering graduates earn $82,864 in their first year—substantially more than the national median of $77,710 and placing them in the 84th percentile nationally. That's notable for a public university with an 86% admission rate. The debt picture reinforces the value: at $21,000, graduates owe $4,000 less than typical engineering students nationwide and nearly $5,000 less than the Arizona state average. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.25 means most graduates can pay off their loans within three years of starting work.

Within Arizona, this program holds its own against fierce competition. While ASU's engineering programs edge ahead by about $2,000 annually, U of A graduates still outearn those from Embry-Riddle and Grand Canyon. More importantly, they're doing it with significantly less debt—Arizona State engineering students typically graduate owing $25,250, while Northern Arizona graduates carry even more. The 16% earnings bump from year one to year four suggests steady career progression in a field known for strong mid-career growth.

For Arizona families weighing in-state options, this is a straightforward choice. Your child gets solid engineering outcomes at one of the better debt levels in the state, all while attending a school that accepts most applicants. The combination of accessible admission, manageable debt, and six-figure earning potential by year four makes this program hard to beat among Arizona publics.