Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering at University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame's electrical engineering program delivers elite-level starting salaries—$85,861 puts graduates in the 95th percentile nationally—while keeping debt remarkably low at $19,000. That's a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.22, meaning graduates owe less than three months' salary. This financial profile rivals the best engineering programs in the country, and it's a significant advantage given Notre Dame's 12% acceptance rate and strong alumni network.

The Indiana context adds nuance. While Notre Dame leads most state programs, Purdue's main campus edges it out slightly at $84,300, and graduates there likely carry similar or lower debt given Purdue's in-state tuition advantage. For Indiana residents, this becomes a genuine choice between two excellent options. Out-of-state students, however, are getting a program that outperforms 95% of electrical engineering programs nationwide with manageable debt—a combination that's hard to find elsewhere.

Strong 18% earnings growth through year four suggests these graduates are advancing well in their careers. The moderate sample size means individual cohort variation is possible, but the overall numbers point to a program delivering exactly what parents hope for: prestigious degree, strong starting position, and minimal debt burden. For families who can manage Notre Dame's private school cost structure, the return clearly justifies the investment.