Median Earnings (1yr)
$61,991
48th percentile
Median Debt
$27,000
At national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.44
Manageable
Sample Size
43
Adequate data

Analysis

University of Maine's mechanical engineering technology program delivers solidly middle-of-the-road outcomes at a reasonable price. Starting at $62,000, graduates earn essentially the national median for this degree, though within Maine, this represents the 60th percentile—a meaningful distinction in a state where engineering technology options are limited. The $27,000 debt load translates to a 0.44 ratio, meaning graduates owe less than half their first year's salary, which is manageable by most standards.

The 7% earnings growth to $66,000 by year four is modest but steady, suggesting this isn't a fast-track career path but rather a stable technical role. For Maine families, this program offers a practical advantage: it's the only bachelor's-level mechanical engineering technology option in the state, eliminating the need to pay out-of-state tuition elsewhere. The 96% admission rate means most qualified students can access this path.

The value here is straightforward rather than exceptional. Your child won't graduate with outsized debt or underwhelming job prospects, but they also won't see explosive salary growth. For students interested in hands-on mechanical work who want to stay in Maine and value the state flagship's resources, this program offers a sensible route into the field without financial strain.

Where University of Maine Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all mechanical engineering related technologies/technicians bachelors's programs nationally

University of MaineOther mechanical engineering related technologies/technicians 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 Maine graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Maine graduates earn $62k, placing them in the 48th percentile of all mechanical engineering related technologies/technicians 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 Maine

Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maine

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Maine$61,991$66,087$27,0000.44
National Median$62,503$27,0000.43

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 Maine, approximately 22% 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 43 graduates with reported earnings and 47 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.