Est. Earnings (1yr)
$80,512
Est. from PA median (8 programs)
Est. Median Debt
$26,500
Est. from PA median (5 programs)

Analysis

Pennsylvania engineering programs vary significantly in first-year outcomes, and the University of Scranton appears positioned in the middle of that range. Similar electrical engineering programs in the state suggest around $80,500 in first-year earnings against approximately $26,500 in debt—a ratio that leaves graduates with manageable payments relative to their starting salaries. While elite programs like Carnegie Mellon produce substantially higher earnings, peer institutions like Lehigh and Drexel cluster around similar figures, indicating Scranton likely delivers competitive preparation for entry-level engineering roles.

The estimated debt load is modest for an engineering degree, sitting just above the national median and below Pennsylvania's typical burden for this credential. Comparable programs suggest monthly loan payments around $300, which should consume roughly 4-5% of gross income—well within the manageable range for technical professionals. What remains unclear is whether Scranton's outcomes match the state median or fall somewhere different, given the lack of reported data for this specific program.

For parents evaluating this investment, the fundamental calculus looks sound based on what similar programs deliver. Engineering degrees typically provide strong returns even when they don't match the elite tier, and the estimated debt-to-earnings picture suggests graduates should handle their obligations without financial strain. The uncertainty here centers on whether Scranton specifically tracks with its Pennsylvania peers or diverges in either direction—a question worth asking directly during campus visits.

Where University of Scranton Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all electrical, electronics and communications engineering bachelors's programs nationally

Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania

Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (20 total in state)

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SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)*Earnings (4yr)Median Debt*Debt/Earnings
University of ScrantonScranton$52,309$80,512*$26,500*
Carnegie Mellon UniversityPittsburgh$63,829$139,337*$149,740$22,250*0.16
Villanova UniversityVillanova$64,701$90,302*$86,457$27,000*0.30
Widener UniversityChester$53,638$82,611*$26,500*0.32
Drexel UniversityPhiladelphia$60,663$81,904*$91,677$29,986*0.37
Lehigh UniversityBethlehem$62,180$79,119*$96,912$22,754*0.29
National Median$77,710*$24,989*0.32
* Estimated from similar programs

Career Paths

Occupations commonly associated with electrical, electronics and communications engineering graduates

Architectural and Engineering Managers

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as architecture and engineering or research and development in these fields.

$167,740/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers

Define, plan, or execute biofuels/biodiesel research programs that evaluate alternative feedstock and process technologies with near-term commercial potential.

$167,740/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Computer Hardware Engineers

Research, design, develop, or test computer or computer-related equipment for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use. May supervise the manufacturing and installation of computer or computer-related equipment and components.

$155,020/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Aerospace Engineers

Perform engineering duties in designing, constructing, and testing aircraft, missiles, and spacecraft. May conduct basic and applied research to evaluate adaptability of materials and equipment to aircraft design and manufacture. May recommend improvements in testing equipment and techniques.

$134,830/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Electrical Engineers

Research, design, develop, test, or supervise the manufacturing and installation of electrical equipment, components, or systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use.

$118,780/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Electronics Engineers, Except Computer

Research, design, develop, or test electronic components and systems for commercial, industrial, military, or scientific use employing knowledge of electronic theory and materials properties. Design electronic circuits and components for use in fields such as telecommunications, aerospace guidance and propulsion control, acoustics, or instruments and controls.

$118,780/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Radio Frequency Identification Device Specialists

Design and implement radio frequency identification device (RFID) systems used to track shipments or goods.

$118,780/yrJobs growth:Bachelor's degree

Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach courses pertaining to the application of physical laws and principles of engineering for the development of machines, materials, instruments, processes, and services. Includes teachers of subjects such as chemical, civil, electrical, industrial, mechanical, mineral, and petroleum engineering. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

$83,980/yrJobs growth:

Engineers, All Other

All engineers not listed separately.

Energy Engineers, Except Wind and Solar

Design, develop, or evaluate energy-related projects or programs to reduce energy costs or improve energy efficiency during the designing, building, or remodeling stages of construction. May specialize in electrical systems; heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) systems; green buildings; lighting; air quality; or energy procurement.

Mechatronics Engineers

Research, design, develop, or test automation, intelligent systems, smart devices, or industrial systems control.

Microsystems Engineers

Research, design, develop, or test microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) devices.

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 Scranton, 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 median of 8 similar programs in PA. Actual outcomes may vary.