Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians at University of Nebraska-Lincoln

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 puts this engineering technology program in reasonable territory—based on comparable programs nationally, graduates can expect to handle about $27,500 in debt against first-year earnings near $59,000. That's manageable by most standards, though it's worth noting these figures come from peer institutions since UNL's graduate cohort is too small for the Department of Education to publish program-specific outcomes.

The distinction between Civil Engineering Technologies and traditional Civil Engineering matters here. Technology programs typically emphasize hands-on, applied skills rather than the theoretical depth of full engineering degrees, which can affect both career trajectories and licensing paths. The estimated earnings—around $59,000—align with what similar programs produce nationally, but they're notably lower than what graduates from traditional civil engineering programs often command. At UNL, this could reflect the program's specialized focus or simply the nature of the field.

For families weighing this option, the key question is whether this specific technical track aligns with your child's career goals. The debt burden appears reasonable for the expected income, but with only estimated data available and just one Nebraska program to consider, visiting the school to understand job placement specifics and whether graduates pursue licensure would be essential. The technology credential opens doors, but knowing exactly which doors matters before committing.