Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $42,278 place McPherson College below the $62,227 national median for Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies — worth weighing against tuition and cost of living.
The 3.5x return on tuition is positive but not overwhelming. Financial outcomes depend on keeping costs close to in-state rates.
AI risk is moderate — 28% task exposure — and the 5% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook.
The $26,975 debt-to-$42,278 income ratio translates to about 8 months of earnings. Standard loan terms should handle this comfortably.
At #59 out of 59 programs, McPherson College's financial outcomes for Mechanical Engineering Related Technologies trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.