Median Earnings (1yr)
$81,330
76th percentile
Median Debt
$21,500
14% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.26
Manageable
Sample Size
17
Limited data

Analysis

University of Kansas electrical engineering graduates start strong at $81,330—well above both the national median ($77,710) and Kansas State's outcomes. However, that small sample caveat matters here: with fewer than 30 graduates tracked, these numbers could shift significantly year-to-year. The 60th percentile ranking among Kansas programs suggests solid but not exceptional performance within the state, though you're looking at just three programs total making that comparison.

The debt picture looks reasonable at $21,500, translating to a 0.26 debt-to-earnings ratio that most graduates can manage comfortably on an engineering salary. More concerning is the modest 7% earnings growth over four years—from $81,330 to $86,763. Strong engineering programs typically show steeper trajectory as graduates move beyond entry-level roles, and this plateau could indicate limited advancement opportunities or geographic constraints in Kansas's smaller tech market.

For a student admitted to both Kansas schools, the choice comes down to fit and cost rather than outcomes. KU's engineering program delivers comparable results to Kansas State at a similar debt load. Just remember these numbers represent a small cohort, so they're better viewed as a directional signal than a guarantee—especially given KU's 88% admission rate suggests less selectivity than elite engineering programs that might offer stronger alumni networks or recruiting pipelines.

Where University of Kansas Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all electrical, electronics and communications engineering bachelors's programs nationally

University of KansasOther electrical, electronics and communications engineering programs

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 Kansas graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Kansas graduates earn $81k, placing them in the 76th percentile of all electrical, electronics and communications engineering 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 Kansas

Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (3 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Kansas$81,330$86,763$21,5000.26
Kansas State University$78,758$87,029$23,1050.29
Wichita State University$77,435$82,574$22,5000.29
National Median$77,710—$24,9890.32

Other Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering Programs in Kansas

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Kansas schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Kansas State University
Manhattan
$10,942$78,758$23,105
Wichita State University
Wichita
$9,322$77,435$22,500

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 Kansas, approximately 20% 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 17 graduates with reported earnings and 22 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.