Keep occupation and graduate measures separate
BLS occupational wage estimates describe workers in an occupation and geographic area. College Scorecard earnings describe a defined education-related cohort. Do not label either a guaranteed starting salary.
Compare the same geography and period
National, state and metro figures cover different labor markets. Keep the reference year visible and avoid comparing different vintages as if they came from the same survey.
Understand the middle and the spread
A median divides reported wages into two halves. It does not isolate new entrants, and a high percentile should not be presented as typical pay for a beginner.
Use local context carefully
Hours, experience, shifts, union agreements and living costs can matter to an individual offer. Use the data to prepare questions and evaluate offers, not to predict a personal result.
Original sources and further reading
Use the relevant provider or public authority for current program-specific decisions. Read how we source and maintain the guide.