Construction Engineering Technologies at University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
UALR's Construction Engineering Technologies program launches graduates into solid $71,000+ starting salaries with manageable debt of around $20,000—a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28 that's quite comfortable for a technical bachelor's degree. However, this is the only program of its kind in Arkansas, so that 60th state percentile essentially reflects that UALR sits slightly below the national median. The small sample size (fewer than 30 graduates tracked) means these numbers could shift significantly with a larger cohort.
The earnings picture is straightforward: graduates start strong and stay there, with essentially flat growth from year one to year four. While that stability might disappoint those expecting rapid salary progression, the immediate access to $70,000+ jobs right after graduation is nothing to dismiss. The debt load is noticeably lighter than the national median of $24,744, which gives graduates more breathing room early in their careers.
For families weighing this investment, the math works: your child could be earning a solid middle-class income within months of graduation while carrying less debt than most construction engineering tech majors nationally. Just remember that career growth will likely depend on additional credentials, management roles, or job changes rather than automatic salary bumps. The lack of comparable programs statewide means this is your only in-state option if you're committed to this specific degree.
Where University of Arkansas at Little Rock Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all construction engineering technologies bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of Arkansas at Little Rock graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Arkansas at Little Rock graduates earn $72k, placing them in the 48th percentile of all construction engineering technologies bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Arkansas
Construction Engineering Technologies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Arkansas
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas at Little Rock | $71,845 | $72,268 | $20,250 | 0.28 |
| National Median | $72,240 | — | $24,744 | 0.34 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Arkansas at Little Rock, approximately 41% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 26 graduates with reported earnings and 24 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.