Analysis
Engineering programs across the nation typically produce graduates earning around $68,000 in their first year—a solid starting point that positions this field as one of the more reliable undergraduate investments. Based on national benchmarks for bachelor's-level engineering programs, Ole Miss likely falls within this range, though the school's specific outcomes aren't publicly reported due to small graduate samples.
The estimated debt load of about $26,000 aligns closely with national norms for engineering degrees, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38. This means graduates would owe roughly five months' worth of their first-year salary—a manageable burden that most engineers can tackle while building their careers. Engineering's strong job market and clear career pathways make this level of debt less concerning than it would be in fields with softer employment prospects.
The real question is whether Ole Miss provides the same rigor and industry connections as its engineering peers. With a 98% admission rate and modest SAT scores, the university casts a wide net—which could mean either inclusive opportunity or less selective academic preparation. If your student thrives with support and can handle the demanding engineering curriculum, the financial fundamentals look reasonable. But confirm that the program offers strong lab facilities, ABET accreditation, and employer relationships that translate estimated national outcomes into actual job offers.
Where University of Mississippi Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Engineering bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,412 | $67,911* | — | $25,832* | — | |
| $64,458 | $109,455* | $114,228 | $14,512* | 0.13 | |
| $66,255 | $92,491* | $103,969 | $22,240* | 0.24 | |
| $68,230 | $86,416* | $87,937 | $14,500* | 0.17 | |
| $15,247 | $82,956* | $104,701 | $15,000* | 0.18 | |
| $41,010 | $78,211* | — | $27,000* | 0.35 | |
| National Median | — | $67,911* | — | $26,056* | 0.38 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Engineers, All Other
Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar
Mechatronics Engineers
Microsystems Engineers
Photonics Engineers
Robotics Engineers
Nanosystems Engineers
Wind Energy Engineers
Solar Energy Systems Engineers
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 Mississippi, 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 47 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.