Compare 5 Laser and Optical Engineering. programs in Minnesota. Average earnings: $83,409.
While school rankings suggest predictable outcomes, Laser and Optical Engineering tells a different story. Across 5 programs in Minnesota, earnings range from $71,676 to $91,888—variation that tracks program quality, not overall school reputation.
University of St Thomas's Laser and Optical Engineering program leads with graduates earning $91,888, well above the $83,409 state average. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities follows at $87,625, while Saint Cloud State University reaches $83,539—demonstrating that program outcomes vary independently of institutional prestige.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities graduates borrow $19,500 and face just a 4.1% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. For families, Saint Cloud State leads with a 7.7% combined burden, proving the best choice depends on who's paying.
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | University Of St ThomasPrivate | $91,888 | 18 | $23,250 | Excellent | $24,467 | Good |
| #2 | $87,625 | 85 | $19,500 | Excellent | $25,729 | Good | |
| #3 | $83,539 | 29 | $21,058 | Excellent | $11,598 | Excellent | |
| #4 | $82,317 | 44 | $22,024 | Excellent | $22,127 | Good | |
| #5 | $71,676 | 30 | $21,106 | Excellent | $13,695 | 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 →
