Analysis
UCF's mechanical engineering program produces graduates who earn less than the national average but maintain reasonable debt levels, creating a middling value proposition. Starting salaries of $66,298 fall short of the $70,744 national median, ranking in just the 23rd percentile nationally. However, within Florida's competitive landscape, UCF performs closer to average at the 40th percentile, with earnings trailing top-tier programs like UF ($76,228) by about $10,000 annually.
The debt picture offers some reassurance, with graduates carrying $22,025 in median debt—slightly below both national and state averages. This translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33, meaning graduates dedicate roughly one-third of their first-year salary to debt obligations. The program shows solid earnings growth of 25% by year four, reaching $82,542, which helps offset the modest starting point.
For families focused on cost-effectiveness, UCF delivers mechanical engineering training without the premium debt load of private competitors. While graduates won't command top-tier starting salaries, the combination of reasonable debt and steady earnings growth creates a sustainable career foundation. Given UCF's 40% admission rate and strong sample size of 100+ graduates, these numbers reflect consistent, reliable outcomes rather than outlier results.
Where University of Central Florida Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mechanical engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Central Florida graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Central Florida | $66,298 | $82,542 | +25% |
| University of Miami | $66,843 | $93,219 | +39% |
| Florida Institute of Technology | $69,533 | $84,606 | +22% |
| University of Florida | $76,228 | $83,832 | +10% |
| University of Florida-Online | $76,228 | $83,832 | +10% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Mechanical Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Central FloridaOrlando | $6,368 | $66,298 | $82,542 | $22,025 | 0.33 |
 University of FloridaGainesville | $6,381 | $76,228 | $83,832 | $18,131 | 0.24 |
 University of Florida-OnlineGainesville | $3,876 | $76,228 | $83,832 | $18,131 | 0.24 |
 Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona BeachDaytona Beach | $42,304 | $73,433 | $77,804 | $27,000 | 0.37 |
 Florida International UniversityMiami | $6,565 | $71,335 | $83,193 | $19,750 | 0.28 |
 University of South FloridaTampa | $6,410 | $70,046 | $81,750 | $23,783 | 0.34 |
| National Median | — | $70,744 | — | $24,755 | 0.35 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mechanical engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Aerospace Engineers
Mechanical Engineers
Fuel Cell Engineers
Automotive Engineers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Cost Estimators
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 Central Florida, approximately 33% 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 426 graduates with reported earnings and 376 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.