Compare 5 Laser and Optical Engineering. programs in Missouri. Average earnings: $84,122.
While school rankings suggest predictable outcomes, Laser and Optical Engineering tells a different story. Across 5 programs, earnings range from $73,446 to $88,063—variation that tracks program quality, not overall school reputation.
University of Missouri-St Louis's Laser and Optical Engineering program leads with graduates earning $88,063, followed closely by University of Missouri-Columbia at $87,394. The average across all programs is $84,122, with the top programs proving that specialized fields often favor technical expertise over institutional prestige.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. University of Missouri-Kansas City graduates borrow $18,750 and face just a 4.1% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. For families, University of Missouri-St Louis leads with a 7.8% family burden—proof that the best choice depends on who's paying.
Highest program earnings: $88,063
Strong outcomes with 57% acceptance
4.1% payment burden | Excellent
7.8% family burden | Excellent
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $88,063 | 33 | $20,000 | Excellent | $15,027 | Excellent | |
| #2 | $87,394 | 57 | $20,500 | Excellent | $32,529 | Manageable | |
| #3 | $86,875 | 138 | $23,250 | Excellent | $30,462 | Manageable | |
| #4 | $84,832 | 63 | $18,750 | Excellent | $18,462 | Good | |
| #5 | Saint Louis UniversityPrivate | $73,446 | 13 | $25,000 | Excellent | $34,177 | Manageable |
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 →
