Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering at University of Southern Maine

A $71,774 first-year salary places University of Southern Maine's electrical engineering graduates below both the national median ($77,710) and Maine's benchmark ($74,406)—landing at the 19th percentile nationally. While debt estimates based on the school's overall borrowing patterns suggest around $25,000 at graduation (a manageable 0.35 ratio to first-year earnings), the earnings gap is harder to ignore. The University of Maine, the only other program in the state with reported data, starts graduates about $5,300 higher.

That said, engineering remains engineering. By year four, earnings climb to nearly $94,000, representing solid 31% growth that narrows the competitive gap considerably. For families prioritizing affordability and access—USM admits 79% of applicants compared to more selective engineering schools—this program delivers a credible path into the field without crushing debt. The trade-off is a slower start that could mean forgoing higher initial earnings elsewhere.

The decision hinges on alternatives. If your student has the academic profile for more competitive programs with stronger placement records, those may justify the additional selectivity. But if USM's accessibility and Portland location align with your family's needs, the combination of reasonable estimated debt and steady earnings growth suggests this program can work—just expect to start a bit behind the curve compared to peer schools in the region.