Compare 10 Platemaker/Imager. programs in the West. Average earnings: $48,190.
Platemaker/Imager programs produce graduates earning between $29,881 and $74,650—a $45K spread that demonstrates why program selection matters independently of school prestige. Across 10 ranked programs in the West, outcomes vary dramatically based on program quality, not institutional reputation.
Brigham Young University's Platemaker/Imager program leads with graduates earning $74,650, well above the $48,190 regional average. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo follows at $67,063, proving that specialized technical programs often excel at institutions known for hands-on education rather than overall prestige.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Brigham Young University graduates borrow just $11,069 and face a 2.9% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. Even Cal Poly SLO, with $18,500 in student debt, maintains an excellent 5.7% burden—proof that strong programs can deliver both outcomes and affordability.
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Brigham Young UniversityPrivate | $74,650 | 15 | $11,069 | Excellent | $9,699 | Excellent |
| #2 | $67,063 | 92 | $18,500 | Excellent | $35,000 | Challenging | |
| #3 | Loyola Marymount UniversityPrivate | $54,433 | 21 | $19,500 | Good | $58,361 | High |
| #4 | $53,609 | 101 | $19,500 | Good | $23,519 | Challenging | |
| #5 | $46,570 | 33 | $27,000 | Manageable | $65,400 | High | |
| #6 | $46,179 | 45 | $27,000 | Manageable | $28,055 | High | |
| #7 | University Of IdahoPublic | $40,404 | 22 | $21,982 | Manageable | $21,162 | High |
| #8 | Art Center College Of DesignPrivate | $38,289 | 36 | $31,000 | High | $66,614 | High |
| #9 | $30,817 | 28 | $17,095 | High | $10,166 | High | |
| #10 | $29,881 | 54 | $18,500 | High | $30,988 | High |
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 →
