Analysis
UPR-Mayaguez mechanical engineering graduates carry just $7,625 in debt—placing this program in the 5th percentile nationally for affordability—while earning $64,869 their first year out. That's a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.12, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in less than two months. Among Puerto Rico's six mechanical engineering programs, this ranks in the 80th percentile for earnings, far outpacing competitors like Inter American-Bayamon where graduates earn $35,250.
The tradeoff is that first-year earnings lag the national median by about $6,000, landing in the 18th percentile nationally. However, earnings grow solidly to $77,282 by year four—a 19% increase that narrows that gap. For Puerto Rican students who would otherwise face $16,000+ in debt at competing local programs while earning significantly less, this represents exceptional value.
The financial math is straightforward: minimal debt, strong regional earnings, and upward trajectory create an enviable starting position for engineering graduates. Parents concerned about national rankings should weigh that against the fact their child would graduate nearly debt-free into one of the highest-paying engineering programs available in Puerto Rico.
Where University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all mechanical engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Puerto Rico-Mayaguez | $64,869 | $77,282 | +19% |
| Duke University | $89,938 | $101,532 | +13% |
| California State University Maritime Academy | $92,315 | $101,325 | +10% |
| SUNY Maritime College | $77,895 | $99,578 | +28% |
| Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Bayamon | $35,250 | $54,268 | +54% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Puerto Rico
Mechanical Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Puerto Rico (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Puerto Rico-MayaguezMayaguez | $5,274 | $64,869 | $77,282 | $7,625 | 0.12 |
 Inter American University of Puerto Rico-BayamonBayamon | $5,580 | $35,250 | $54,268 | $17,550 | 0.50 |
| National Median | — | $70,744 | — | $24,755 | 0.35 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with mechanical engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Aerospace Engineers
Mechanical Engineers
Fuel Cell Engineers
Automotive Engineers
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
Cost Estimators
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 Puerto Rico-Mayaguez, approximately 65% 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 121 graduates with reported earnings and 94 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.