Compare 7 Laser and Optical Engineering. programs in Illinois. Average earnings: $84,820.
While school rankings suggest predictable outcomes, Laser and Optical Engineering tells a different story. Across 7 programs, earnings range from $77,944 to $90,757—variation that tracks program quality, not overall school reputation.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's Laser and Optical Engineering program leads with graduates earning $90,757, closely followed by Bradley University at $90,424. The $12,813 spread across Illinois programs proves that outcomes depend on program-specific factors, not institutional prestige alone.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. University of Illinois Chicago graduates borrow $16,704 and face just a 3.6% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. That means loan payments take a minimal bite out of their post-grad income.
Highest program earnings: $90,757
Strong outcomes with 77% acceptance
3.6% payment burden | Excellent
9.6% family burden | Good
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $90,757 | 221 | $19,500 | Excellent | $34,511 | Good | |
| #2 | Bradley UniversityPrivate | $90,424 | 21 | $27,000 | Excellent | $41,405 | Manageable |
| #3 | $89,107 | 37 | $25,000 | Excellent | $36,438 | Manageable | |
| #4 | $86,262 | 105 | $16,704 | Excellent | $24,323 | Good | |
| #5 | $79,921 | 90 | $22,162 | Excellent | $19,508 | Good | |
| #6 | $79,325 | 38 | $20,500 | Excellent | $21,500 | Good | |
| #7 | $77,944 | 32 | $21,543 | Excellent | $19,500 | Good |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
