Engineering Technology at Kansas State University

Manhattan, KS · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Engineering Technology, General
64 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
65
Optimistic
64
Base Case
62
Pessimistic
Earnings $61,696/yr (5% vs median)
AI Risk High (40% exposed)
Job Market Medium (28,100 openings/yr)
ROI 16.1x earnings multiple (6.3x out-of-state)
Ranked #8 of 34 Engineering Technology, General programs Top 25%

Program Analysis

Kansas State's Engineering Technology program truly stands out, reflecting its strong reputation for producing highly capable graduates. This success stems from a practical, applied curriculum that aligns perfectly with the needs of regional employers in manufacturing, aerospace (especially with proximity to Wichita), and agricultural technology across the Midwest. You'll develop hands-on skills crucial for implementing designs, managing production, and ensuring quality control, making you an immediate asset. While some tasks within the field face higher AI risk, this underscores the importance of focusing on the problem-solving, integration, and human-interface aspects that automation can't easily replicate. To thrive, actively seek out internships that immerse you in advanced manufacturing processes or project management, building a versatile skill set that keeps you indispensable.

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Engineering Technology graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $728K $706K $636K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 16.6x 16.1x 14.5x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 6.5x 6.3x 5.7x
Probability of Field Employment 55% 50% 40%
DegreeOutlook Score 65 64 62

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$43,768
Out-of-state: $111,264 (6.3x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$71,532
-63% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,950
4.3 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$85,606
39% growth from Year 1

About Kansas State University

Kansas State University has a 79% acceptance rate, making it broadly accessible, serving 14,835 students in Manhattan, KS.

See all programs and financial aid at Kansas State University →

Top Career Paths

Aerospace engineering and operations technologists and technicians $79,830/yr
Engineering technologists and technicians, except drafters, all other $77,390/yr
Electrical and electronic engineering technologists and technicians $77,180/yr
View all 6 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Engineering Technology at Other Schools

Other Majors at Kansas State University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 64/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Engineering Technology at Kansas State University?
At 64/100, Kansas State University's Engineering Technology program delivers middling returns. School cost and personal fit become important decision factors.
Should I worry about AI if I study Engineering Technology at Kansas State University?
The 40% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Is Kansas State University one of the best schools for Engineering Technology?
Among 34 Engineering Technology programs, Kansas State University's #8 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →