Compare 6 Mechanical Engineering. programs in Missouri. Average earnings: $80,393.
The highest-earning Mechanical Engineering program isn't at the most prestigious school. With a $18K earnings gap across 6 programs, the data confirms: program-level factors drive outcomes more than institutional brand.
Washington University In St Louis's Mechanical Engineering program leads with graduates earning $85,827. Close behind, University Of Missouri-Kansas City delivers $84,088—just $1,739 less despite a 75% acceptance rate versus Washington's highly selective 12%. The average across all programs is $80,393.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Washington University graduates borrow $17,500 and face just a 3.8% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. For families, University Of Missouri-Kansas City leads with an 8.9% family burden—proof that the best choice depends on who's paying.
Highest program earnings: $85,827
Strong outcomes with 75% acceptance
3.8% payment burden | Excellent
8.9% family burden | Good
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $85,827 | 104 | $17,500 | Excellent | $24,585 | Good | |
| #2 | $84,088 | 52 | $18,750 | Excellent | $18,462 | Good | |
| #3 | $83,864 | 166 | $20,500 | Excellent | $32,529 | Manageable | |
| #4 | $83,593 | 279 | $23,250 | Excellent | $30,462 | Manageable | |
| #5 | $77,327 | 39 | $20,000 | Excellent | $15,027 | Good | |
| #6 | Saint Louis UniversityPrivate | $67,660 | 26 | $25,000 | Excellent | $34,177 | Challenging |
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 →
