Biomedical/Medical Engineering at University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth

UMass Dartmouth's biomedical engineering graduates start below the pack but quickly close the gap. While first-year earnings of $60,237 trail the Massachusetts median by $10,000 and lag behind MIT and WPI significantly, four-year earnings jump to $85,262—surpassing even the top programs in the state. This 42% earnings growth suggests graduates build valuable skills or credentials that command better compensation as they gain experience.

The program's real strength is affordability. At $27,000 in median debt, graduates face just 45 cents of debt for every dollar of first-year earnings—well below typical engineering debt burdens and identical to the state average. This keeps monthly loan payments manageable during that lower-earning first year. Given the 92% admission rate, this program offers accessible entry into biomedical engineering without the crushing debt load from more selective schools.

However, the 40th percentile ranking among Massachusetts programs is worth noting—you're not paying premium prices, but you're not getting premium placement either. For families seeking a cost-effective path into biomedical engineering with strong mid-career potential, this works. Just understand your child may need patience through that first year while their peers at pricier programs start ahead.