Electrical Engineering Technologies/Technicians at Wayne State University

Wayne State's electrical engineering technology program produces exceptional results compared to national programs, with first-year earnings of $82,524 placing graduates at the 95th percentile nationally—well above the $67,395 national median. But here's the Michigan context that matters: while these earnings look outstanding nationally, they're closer to the middle of the pack (60th percentile) for similar programs in-state, suggesting Michigan's strong manufacturing and automotive sectors generally support robust outcomes for engineering technicians across the board. Still, Wayne State graduates out-earn the state median by about $7,000 and significantly outpace Ferris State's outcomes.

The financial picture is manageable, with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40 meaning graduates typically owe less than half their first-year salary. Earnings growth to $94,247 by year four adds another reassuring data point. For a Detroit-area family, especially given Wayne State's 43% Pell Grant population and accessible 82% admission rate, this program offers a practical pathway to solid middle-class earnings without crushing debt.

The major caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary more than these medians suggest. But for students interested in hands-on electrical engineering work rather than a traditional engineering degree, Wayne State delivers strong returns in a region where these skills are in demand.