Mining & Petroleum Technology at Nicholls State University

Thibodaux, LA · Public · Associate Degree · Mining and Petroleum Technologies/Technicians

With 96% of applicants admitted, Nicholls State University prioritizes broad access, a smaller institution with 4,772 students in Thibodaux, LA.

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $63,555 at Nicholls State University come in 8% above the national median of $58,980 for Mining & Petroleum Technology programs.

With a 46.5x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 14% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Mining & Petroleum Technology career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.

Mining & Petroleum Technology is offered at just 6 schools in our analysis. Nicholls State University's #5 ranking should be read in that context.

The limited growth from $63,555 to $75,285 over five years suggests earnings in this trade plateau relatively early in one's career.

The 9 apprenticeship pathways connected to Mining & Petroleum Technology reflect strong industry infrastructure for this trade. Apprenticeships typically lead to journeyman-level wages.

57 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
55
Low End
57
Score
58
High End
Earnings $63,555/yr (8% vs median)
AI-Proof Resilient (80% shielded)
Job Market Medium (12,400 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$775K
4.3% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
47.4x
10-year earnings ÷ tuition
Viable Career Paths
4 of 4
Occupations with strong AI resilience

Projected 10-Year Earnings

Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.

Program Tuition (In-State)
$16,346
Out-of-state: $18,532
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$75,285
18% growth from Year 1

Top Career Paths

Top career paths for Mining & Petroleum Technology graduates by median salary.

Career Path Median Salary Growth AI-ProofAI
Gas plant operators $83,400 -8.8% 91%
Engineering technologists and technicians, except drafters, all other $77,390 +1.5% 76%
Service unit operators, oil and gas $57,980 +0.4% 94%
Gas plant operators
$83,400
-8.8% growth 91% AI-proof
Engineering technologists and technicians, except drafters, all other
$77,390
+1.5% growth 76% AI-proof
Service unit operators, oil and gas
$57,980
+0.4% growth 94% AI-proof

View all 4 career paths with full salary data →

Mining & Petroleum Technology Career Guide

Explore what Mining & Petroleum Technology graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 6 programs nationwide.

Read the full Mining & Petroleum Technology career guide →

Compare & Explore

Mining & Petroleum Technology Overview

Mining & Petroleum Technology at Other Schools

Explore the Degree Alternative

Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 57/100 TradeSchoolOutlook Score mean for Mining & Petroleum Technology at Nicholls State University?
This program scores 57/100 — a respectable number in isolation, but it ranks in the bottom half of Mining & Petroleum Technology programs nationally. The field is competitive, and stronger options exist.
Are there apprenticeship options for Mining & Petroleum Technology?
The DOL recognizes 9 apprenticeship pathways related to Mining & Petroleum Technology. For students weighing Nicholls State University's program cost against alternatives, apprenticeships offer zero-tuition entry with paid employment from day one.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →