Precision Metalworking at Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology

Wichita, KS · Public · Certificate · Precision Metal Working

with a smaller student body of 2,778 in Wichita, KS.

Program Analysis

Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology's Precision Metalworking graduates start at $30,515/yr, trailing the $36,869 national average by 17%. The program's value hinges on affordability.

With a 68.0x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 29% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Precision Metalworking career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.

Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $4,432 in median debt clears fast against $30,515 in annual earnings.

A #162 ranking among 355 Precision Metalworking programs places Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology in the middle-to-upper range. Solid, not exceptional.

A 38% earnings increase from $30,515 to $42,129 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

The 131 apprenticeship pathways connected to Precision Metalworking reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.

56 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
53
Low End
56
Score
58
High End
Earnings $30,515/yr (-17% vs median)
AI-Proof AI-Proof (87% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (164,200 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$450K
8.4% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
74.9x
10-year earnings ÷ tuition
Viable Career Paths
22 of 24
Occupations with strong AI resilience

Projected 10-Year Earnings

Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.

Program Tuition (In-State)
$6,018
Out-of-state: $6,928
Median Debt at Graduation
$4,432
1.7 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$42,129
38% growth from Year 1

Top Career Paths

Top career paths for Precision Metalworking graduates by median salary.

Career Path Median Salary Growth AI-ProofAI
Computer numerically controlled tool programmers $65,670 +12.8% 20%
Tool and die makers $63,180 -10.8% 81%
Model makers, metal and plastic $62,700 -18.2% 84%
Computer numerically controlled tool programmers
$65,670
+12.8% growth 20% AI-proof
Tool and die makers
$63,180
-10.8% growth 81% AI-proof
Model makers, metal and plastic
$62,700
-18.2% growth 84% AI-proof

View all 24 career paths with full salary data →

Precision Metalworking Career Guide

See the full career breakdown for Precision Metalworking — job titles, salary ranges, and growth projections for graduates from Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology and 354 other schools.

Read the full Precision Metalworking career guide →

Compare & Explore

Precision Metalworking Overview

Precision Metalworking at Other Schools

Other Majors at Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 56/100 TradeSchoolOutlook Score mean for Precision Metalworking at Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology?
This program scores 56/100, reflecting respectable but not exceptional financial outcomes for Precision Metalworking graduates.
Will AI replace Precision Metalworking jobs?
This is one of the more automation-resistant trades. Precision Metalworking work requires physical skill and on-site presence — qualities AI cannot provide. Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology's score of 56/100 reflects this durability.
What's the typical debt for Precision Metalworking graduates from Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology?
At $4,432 in median debt, Precision Metalworking graduates from Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology carry minimal financial burden. The debt-to-income ratio of 0.1x is well below the trade program average.
Can you still earn well with Precision Metalworking from Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology?
First-year earnings trail the national median, but starting salary isn't the full picture. Regional cost of living, career trajectory, and tuition cost all factor in. Check the five-year earnings data when available.
Should I consider an apprenticeship over a Precision Metalworking program at Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology?
The DOL recognizes 131 apprenticeship pathways related to Precision Metalworking. For students weighing Wichita State University-Campus of Applied Sciences and Technology's program cost against alternatives, apprenticeships offer zero-tuition entry with paid employment from day one.
Is there demand for Precision Metalworking workers?
The very large job market (164,200 annual openings) works in favor of Precision Metalworking graduates. The national outlook is driven by infrastructure investment and steady replacement demand as workers retire, though regional variation matters.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →