Design Engineering Technologies at Des Moines Area Community College
enrolling 10,406 students in Ankeny, IA.
Program Analysis
First-year earnings of $44,886 at Des Moines Area Community College come in 7% above the national median of $42,040 for Design Engineering Technologies programs.
The 45.1x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 40% task exposure — and the 9% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Design Engineering Technologies graduates.
At #23 out of 45 programs, Des Moines Area Community College's financial outcomes for Design Engineering Technologies trail the majority of peers. The value case depends on other factors.
With 15 registered apprenticeships mapped to Design Engineering Technologies, graduates have substantial options for hands-on training paths that pay from day one.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Design Engineering Technologies graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical and electronics drafters | $73,720 | -5.6% | 43% |
| Mechanical drafters | $68,510 | -6.5% | 50% |
| Architectural and civil drafters | $64,280 | +4.1% | 46% |
About Design Engineering Technologies Careers
Your career begins by transforming an engineer's rough sketch into a precise digital model. As an architectural drafter, you might spend your day in an office using software like Revit to create detailed blueprints for a new office building, then visit the construction site to verify measurements. As a mechanical drafter, you’d use SolidWorks to model a complex machine part, ensuring every tolerance is perfect for manufacturing.
Read the full Design Engineering Technologies career guide →
Compare & Explore
Design Engineering Technologies Overview
Design Engineering Technologies at Other Schools
Other Majors at Des Moines Area Community College
Explore the Degree Alternative
Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.