Civil Engineering at University of Washington-Seattle Campus

University of Washington-Seattle's civil engineering program delivers strong earnings with remarkably low debt—a rare combination. Graduates start at $73,357, outperforming 81% of civil engineering programs nationally, while carrying just $14,874 in median debt (less than a quarter of the national median of $24,500). That 0.20 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can realistically pay off their loans in under a year if they prioritize it, giving them significant financial flexibility early in their careers.

The program ranks in the 60th percentile among Washington's seven civil engineering programs, meaning it sits comfortably in the middle of state options—but consider that UW-Seattle's tuition advantage likely explains the minimal debt load. While Washington State edges ahead slightly in starting salary ($74,841), UW graduates are carrying thousands less in debt. The steady 12% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates are advancing into project management or specialized roles at a healthy pace.

For families weighing flagship public universities, this is exactly the value proposition you're looking for: strong earning potential immediately after graduation, minimal debt burden, and a clear path to financial stability. The combination of UW's engineering reputation and its below-average debt makes this program an excellent investment, particularly for in-state students who can maximize the cost advantage.