Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies/Technicians at Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 suggests a manageable financial picture for this mechanical engineering technology program, though it's important to understand we're working with estimates here. When the Department of Education can't publish data due to small graduate cohorts, we look to national medians from similar programs—in this case, associate degrees in mechanical engineering technologies across the country. These peer programs typically produce first-year earnings around $48,000 with debt loads near $15,400.

The fundamental math works in students' favor. Borrowing roughly a third of what you'd expect to earn in your first year creates breathing room for loan repayment while establishing a career in technical manufacturing or engineering support roles. Kansas has a strong aerospace and manufacturing base where these skills translate directly to employment, though with only two schools offering this program statewide, it's worth understanding how well-connected this specific campus is to local employers.

The catch is uncertainty. Small cohort sizes mean we can't see how *this particular program* performs—whether Wichita State's applied sciences campus exceeds or falls short of those national norms. Before committing, talk directly to the program about graduate outcomes, employer partnerships, and whether their technicians land the kind of positions that justify even modest debt loads. The estimated numbers suggest promise, but you'll want actual placement data to feel confident.