Set in a high-tech hub, J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College is known for practical, career-focused academics in applied sciences, skilled trades, health fields, business, and computing. Hands-on labs and shops pair with tutoring, advising, and a career center that keeps goals in sight. Students find specialized practice spaces and quiet study spots alongside approachable faculty.
Student life feels friendly and down to earth, with clubs, service projects, and events built for busy schedules. Drake State's roots as a historically Black institution shape a tight, welcoming community. And Huntsville's tech economy brings internships and employer meetups, while nearby trails, parks, and a lively food scene add room to breathe; industry input and showcase events keep career prep front and center.
Degree Programs & Career Salary Prospects
Explore degree programs offered at J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College (Drake State) with detailed career prospects, starting salary ranges, and job opportunities in Alabama. See what you can do with your degree and expected earnings after graduation.
How to use this guide:
Click on any academic field that interests you to expand and view available degree programs. Each program shows potential career paths, median salaries in Alabama vs national averages, and job prospects for graduates. Perfect for answering "What can I do with my degree?" and salary expectations.
Health (6)
Most Graduates (34%)
Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice
51.0801
Medical/Clinical Assistant.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of physicians, to provide medical office administrative services and perform clinical duties including patient intake and care, routine diagnostic and recording procedures, pre-examination and examination assistance, and the administration of medications and first aid. Includes instruction in basic anatomy and physiology; medical terminology; medical law and ethics; patient psychology and communications; medical office procedures; and clinical diagnostic, examination, testing, and treatment procedures.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
25-1071 |
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary |
$137,900
|
$98,210
|
-$39,690 (-28.8%)
|
31-9092 |
Medical Assistants |
$44,720
|
$32,620
|
-$12,100 (-27.1%)
|
51.3801
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.
(Cert<2y)
A program that generally prepares individuals in the knowledge, techniques and procedures for promoting health, providing care for sick, disabled, infirmed, or other individuals or groups. Includes instruction in the administration of medication and treatments, assisting a physician during treatments and examinations, Referring patients to physicians and other health care specialists, and planning education for health maintenance.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
25-1072 |
Nursing Instructors and Teachers, Postsecondary |
$87,090
|
$69,730
|
-$17,360 (-19.9%)
|
29-1141 |
Registered Nurses |
$98,430
|
$67,740
|
-$30,690 (-31.2%)
|
51.3901
Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurse Training.
(Cert<1y)
A program that prepares individuals to assist in providing general nursing care under the direction of a registered nurse, physician or dentist. Includes instruction in taking patient vital signs, applying sterile dressings, patient health education, and assistance with examinations and treatment.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
29-2061 |
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses |
$64,150
|
$47,460
|
-$16,690 (-26%)
|
51.3902
Nursing Assistant/Aide and Patient Care Assistant/Aide.
(AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to perform routine nursing-related services to patients in hospitals or long-term care facilities, under the training and supervision of a registered nurse or licensed practical nurse.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
31-1131 |
Nursing Assistants |
$41,270
|
$31,490
|
-$9,780 (-23.7%)
|
Eng. Technologies (11)
Most Graduates (33.6%)
Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support
15.0303
Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of electrical, electronics and communication engineers. Includes instruction in electrical circuitry, prototype development and testing, systems analysis and testing, systems maintenance, instrument calibration, and report preparation.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
17-3012 |
Electrical and Electronics Drafters |
$77,960
|
$65,450
|
-$12,510 (-16%)
|
17-3021 |
Aerospace Engineering and Operations Technologists and Technicians |
$86,330
|
$73,740
|
-$12,590 (-14.6%)
|
17-3023 |
Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians |
$78,580
|
$83,140
|
+$4,560 (+5.8%)
|
17-3024 |
Electro-Mechanical and Mechatronics Technologists and Technicians |
$75,710
|
$68,020
|
-$7,690 (-10.2%)
|
17-3028 |
Calibration Technologists and Technicians |
$71,080
|
$50,580
|
-$20,500 (-28.8%)
|
49-2095 |
Electrical and Electronics Repairers, Powerhouse, Substation, and Relay |
$97,460
|
$89,290
|
-$8,170 (-8.4%)
|
15.0501
Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Engineering Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers and other professionals engaged in developing and using air conditioning, refrigeration, ventilation, and heating systems. Includes instruction in principles of heating and cooling technology, design and operational testing, inspection and maintenance procedures, installation and operation procedures, and report preparation.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
17-3029 |
Engineering Technologists and Technicians, Except Drafters, All Other |
$79,740
|
$70,320
|
-$9,420 (-11.8%)
|
49-9021 |
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers |
$62,690
|
$50,030
|
-$12,660 (-20.2%)
|
15.0613
Manufacturing Engineering Technology/Technician.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills to the identification and resolution of production problems in the manufacture of products. Includes instruction in machine operations, production line operations, engineering analysis, systems analysis, instrumentation, physical controls, automation, computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), manufacturing planning, quality control, and informational infrastructure.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
17-3026 |
Industrial Engineering Technologists and Technicians |
$69,780
|
$66,690
|
-$3,090 (-4.4%)
|
15.0803
Automotive Engineering Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply basic engineering principles and technical skills in support of engineers and other professionals engaged in developing, manufacturing and testing self-propelled ground vehicles and their systems. Includes instruction in vehicular systems technology, design and development testing, prototype and operational testing, inspection and maintenance procedures, instrument calibration, test equipment operation and maintenance, and report preparation.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
17-3013 |
Mechanical Drafters |
$74,040
|
$49,000
|
-$25,040 (-33.8%)
|
17-3027 |
Mechanical Engineering Technologists and Technicians |
$72,450
|
$76,760
|
+$4,310 (+5.9%)
|
49-3023 |
Automotive Service Technicians and Mechanics |
$55,260
|
$46,810
|
-$8,450 (-15.3%)
|
15.1301
Drafting and Design Technology/Technician, General.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to generally apply technical skills to create working drawings and computer simulations for a variety of applications. Includes instruction in specification interpretation, dimensioning techniques, drafting calculations, material estimation, technical communications, computer applications, and interpersonal communications.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
17-3011 |
Architectural and Civil Drafters |
$68,860
|
$53,980
|
-$14,880 (-21.6%)
|
17-3012 |
Electrical and Electronics Drafters |
$77,960
|
$65,450
|
-$12,510 (-16%)
|
17-3013 |
Mechanical Drafters |
$74,040
|
$49,000
|
-$25,040 (-33.8%)
|
17-3019 |
Drafters, All Other |
$66,530
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
Personal Services (9)
Most Graduates (23%)
Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Personal Care
12.0402
Barbering/Barber.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to shave and trim facial/neck hair and beards, cut and dress hair, fit hairpieces, give facial and scalp massages, apply cosmetic treatments, and to prepare for licensure as professional barbers at various levels. Includes instruction in facial shaving; beard and mustache shaping and trimming; shampooing; hair cutting; hair styles and styling art; facial treatments and massage; chemical applications; hair and scalp anatomy and physiology; hairpiece and toupee fitting; equipment operation; health and safety; customer service; and shop business practices.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
39-5011 |
Barbers |
$47,800
|
$27,640
|
-$20,160 (-42.2%)
|
12.0412
Salon/Beauty Salon Management/Manager.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares cosmetologists, hairstylists, and other personal grooming specialists to manage beauty parlors, shops, and full-service or specialized salons and to prepare for licensure as professional salon owners and operators. Includes instruction in cosmetic services marketing and retailing; advertising and promotion; salon management; the cosmetic and salon supply industries; hiring, supervision, and labor relations; applicable business and professional laws and regulations; professional standards and image; and customer service.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
11-9179 |
Personal Service Managers, All Other |
$70,620
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
39-1022 |
First-Line Supervisors of Personal Service Workers |
$50,920
|
$42,440
|
-$8,480 (-16.7%)
|
39-5011 |
Barbers |
$47,800
|
$27,640
|
-$20,160 (-42.2%)
|
39-5012 |
Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists |
$43,460
|
$33,690
|
-$9,770 (-22.5%)
|
12.0499
Cosmetology and Related Personal Grooming Arts, Other.
(AltPostMSc)
Any instructional program in cosmetology and related personal grooming services not listed above.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
39-5012 |
Hairdressers, Hairstylists, and Cosmetologists |
$43,460
|
$33,690
|
-$9,770 (-22.5%)
|
12.0503
Culinary Arts/Chef Training.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to provide professional chef and related cooking services in restaurants and other commercial food establishments. Includes instruction in recipe and menu planning, preparing and cooking of foods, supervising and training kitchen assistants, the management of food supplies and kitchen resources, aesthetics of food presentation, and familiarity or mastery of a wide variety of cuisines and culinary techniques.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
35-1011 |
Chefs and Head Cooks |
$64,720
|
$59,710
|
-$5,010 (-7.7%)
|
35-1012 |
First-Line Supervisors of Food Preparation and Serving Workers |
$44,900
|
$34,850
|
-$10,050 (-22.4%)
|
35-2013 |
Cooks, Private Household |
$51,290
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
35-2014 |
Cooks, Restaurant |
$37,730
|
$28,670
|
-$9,060 (-24%)
|
35-2019 |
Cooks, All Other |
$38,000
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
Business (2)
Business Administration, Marketing and Entrepreneurship
52.0201
Business Administration and Management, General.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that generally prepares individuals to plan, organize, direct, and control the functions and processes of a firm or organization. Includes instruction in management theory, human resources management and behavior, accounting and other quantitative methods, purchasing and logistics, organization and production, marketing, and business decision-making.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
11-1011 |
Chief Executives |
$262,930
|
$152,960
|
-$109,970 (-41.8%)
|
11-1021 |
General and Operations Managers |
$133,120
|
$120,050
|
-$13,070 (-9.8%)
|
11-2022 |
Sales Managers |
$160,930
|
$123,120
|
-$37,810 (-23.5%)
|
11-3012 |
Administrative Services Managers |
$126,030
|
$92,520
|
-$33,510 (-26.6%)
|
11-3013 |
Facilities Managers |
$114,520
|
$112,270
|
-$2,250 (-2%)
|
11-3051 |
Industrial Production Managers |
$129,180
|
$116,970
|
-$12,210 (-9.5%)
|
11-3071 |
Transportation, Storage, and Distribution Managers |
$116,010
|
$124,920
|
+$8,910 (+7.7%)
|
11-3111 |
Compensation and Benefits Managers |
$156,230
|
$129,220
|
-$27,010 (-17.3%)
|
11-3121 |
Human Resources Managers |
$160,480
|
$104,360
|
-$56,120 (-35%)
|
11-3131 |
Training and Development Managers |
$140,590
|
$124,680
|
-$15,910 (-11.3%)
|
11-9021 |
Construction Managers |
$119,660
|
$94,340
|
-$25,320 (-21.2%)
|
11-9072 |
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling |
$87,060
|
$64,750
|
-$22,310 (-25.6%)
|
11-9151 |
Social and Community Service Managers |
$86,100
|
$72,770
|
-$13,330 (-15.5%)
|
11-9179 |
Personal Service Managers, All Other |
$70,620
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
11-9199 |
Managers, All Other |
$149,890
|
$123,570
|
-$26,320 (-17.6%)
|
13-1051 |
Cost Estimators |
$83,160
|
$69,090
|
-$14,070 (-16.9%)
|
13-1071 |
Human Resources Specialists |
$79,730
|
$65,890
|
-$13,840 (-17.4%)
|
13-1081 |
Logisticians |
$87,600
|
$83,560
|
-$4,040 (-4.6%)
|
13-1082 |
Project Management Specialists |
$108,100
|
$102,540
|
-$5,560 (-5.1%)
|
13-1111 |
Management Analysts |
$114,710
|
$96,800
|
-$17,910 (-15.6%)
|
13-1141 |
Compensation, Benefits, and Job Analysis Specialists |
$82,920
|
$64,840
|
-$18,080 (-21.8%)
|
13-1199 |
Business Operations Specialists, All Other |
$92,380
|
$90,390
|
-$1,990 (-2.2%)
|
25-1011 |
Business Teachers, Postsecondary |
$113,840
|
$93,280
|
-$20,560 (-18.1%)
|
Human Sciences (3)
Family Studies, Consumer Sciences and Human Development
19.0708
Child Care and Support Services Management.
(Cert<1y, Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A program that focuses on the provision and management of child care services and that prepares individuals to plan, design, and manage child care facilities and programs that meet children's developmental needs and interests and that provide safe and healthy environments. Includes instruction in child development and psychology; home- and institution-based child care; identification of diseases, injuries, and psychological trauma and applicable referrals; parent relations; personnel and business management principles; and related laws and policies.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
25-1192 |
Family and Consumer Sciences Teachers, Postsecondary |
$84,450
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
25-2011 |
Preschool Teachers, Except Special Education |
$41,450
|
$29,020
|
-$12,430 (-30%)
|
Computer & IT (2)
Computer Science, Information Technology and Cybersecurity
11.0101
Computer and Information Sciences, General.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
A general program that focuses on computing, computer science, and information science and systems. Such programs are undifferentiated as to title and content and are not to be confused with specific programs in computer science, information science, or related support services.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
11-3021 |
Computer and Information Systems Managers |
$187,990
|
$142,570
|
-$45,420 (-24.2%)
|
15-1211 |
Computer Systems Analysts |
$111,960
|
$107,760
|
-$4,200 (-3.8%)
|
15-1221 |
Computer and Information Research Scientists |
$152,310
|
$108,720
|
-$43,590 (-28.6%)
|
15-1241 |
Computer Network Architects |
$135,890
|
$130,600
|
-$5,290 (-3.9%)
|
15-1242 |
Database Administrators |
$107,440
|
$103,240
|
-$4,200 (-3.9%)
|
15-1243 |
Database Architects |
$142,620
|
$121,830
|
-$20,790 (-14.6%)
|
15-1244 |
Network and Computer Systems Administrators |
$101,190
|
$78,690
|
-$22,500 (-22.2%)
|
15-1253 |
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers |
$110,260
|
$98,900
|
-$11,360 (-10.3%)
|
15-1255 |
Web and Digital Interface Designers |
$111,450
|
$68,310
|
-$43,140 (-38.7%)
|
15-1299 |
Computer Occupations, All Other |
$116,700
|
$93,250
|
-$23,450 (-20.1%)
|
25-1021 |
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary |
$105,830
|
$123,940
|
+$18,110 (+17.1%)
|
Liberal Arts (3)
Liberal Arts Education, General Studies and Humanities
24.0101
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.
(Cert<2y)
A program that is a structured combination of the arts, biological and physical sciences, social sciences, and humanities, emphasizing breadth of study. Includes instruction in independently designed, individualized, or regular programs.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
25-1199 |
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other |
$94,470
|
$67,060
|
-$27,410 (-29%)
|
24.0102
General Studies.
(Cert<2y, AltPostMSc)
An undifferentiated program that includes instruction in the general arts, general science, or unstructured studies.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
25-1199 |
Postsecondary Teachers, All Other |
$94,470
|
$67,060
|
-$27,410 (-29%)
|
Production (3)
Manufacturing Technology, Quality Control and Industrial Arts
48.0507
Tool and Die Technology/Technician.
(Cert<2y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to operate machine tools used in the forming of metal components, as well as the fabrication of special tools, dies, jigs and fixtures used in cutting, working and finishing metal components.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
51-4111 |
Tool and Die Makers |
$65,100
|
$62,640
|
-$2,460 (-3.8%)
|
48.0508
Welding Technology/Welder.
(Cert<1y, AltPostMSc)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to join or cut metal surfaces. Includes instruction in arc welding, resistance welding, brazing and soldering, cutting, high-energy beam welding and cutting, solid state welding, ferrous and non-ferrous materials, oxidation-reduction reactions, welding metallurgy, welding processes and heat treating, structural design, safety, and applicable codes and standards.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
51-4121 |
Welders, Cutters, Solderers, and Brazers |
$55,100
|
$43,350
|
-$11,750 (-21.3%)
|
51-4122 |
Welding, Soldering, and Brazing Machine Setters, Operators, and Tenders |
$49,270
|
$34,050
|
-$15,220 (-30.9%)
|
Construction (1)
Building Trades, Construction Management and Skilled Crafts
46.0302
Electrician.
(Cert<1y)
A program that prepares individuals to apply technical knowledge and skills to install, operate, maintain, and repair electric apparatus and systems such as residential, commercial, and industrial electric-power wiring; and DC and AC motors, controls, and electrical distribution panels. Includes instruction in the principles of electronics and electrical systems, wiring, power transmission, safety, industrial and household appliances, job estimation, electrical testing and inspection, and applicable codes and standards.
Graduate Career Earnings in Alabama
Average graduate salary for this degree:
SOC Code |
Occupation |
US National |
Alabama Avg |
AL vs US |
47-1011 |
First-Line Supervisors of Construction Trades and Extraction Workers |
$84,500
|
$66,640
|
-$17,860 (-21.1%)
|
47-2111 |
Electricians |
$69,630
|
$53,960
|
-$15,670 (-22.5%)
|
49-2098 |
Security and Fire Alarm Systems Installers |
$60,040
|
$54,450
|
-$5,590 (-9.3%)
|
49-9097 |
Signal and Track Switch Repairers |
$84,940
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most common questions about J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College (Drake State)
How much does it cost to attend J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College (Drake State)?
The annual tuition at J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College (Drake State) is $5,130 for in-state students and $8,940 for out-of-state students. When including room and board, books, and other expenses, the total estimated cost is approximately $7,130 for in-state students and $10,940 for out-of-state students.
Additional costs include
room and board $9,450 (off-campus) and books and supplies $2,000.
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Tuition and cost estimates are approximate and may not include all fees, personal expenses, or transportation costs.
What academic programs and degree levels does J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College offer?
J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College (Drake State) offers 43 academic programs across 9 major fields of study, with available degree levels: Certificate (1-2 yrs), Associate's, Other Award.
Most popular program areas include:
- Applied Engineering Technologies and Technical Support (11 programs)
- Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts and Personal Care (9 programs)
- Healthcare Professions, Medical Sciences and Clinical Practice (6 programs)
- Family Studies, Consumer Sciences and Human Development (3 programs)
- Liberal Arts Education, General Studies and Humanities (3 programs)
Data based on IPEDS program completions for 2022-2023 academic year. Numbers reflect programs where students graduated, not all offered programs.
What financial aid and scholarships are available at J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College?
J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College (Drake State) provides financial aid to 7% of first-time, full-time students, with average grants of $6,840 and average loans of $8,500.
Average financial aid amounts by type:
- Pell grants: $6,053
- State/Local grants: $349
- Institutional grants: $3,337
The university supports 61 students with grants and 1 students with loans annually.
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Financial aid amounts and percentages may vary by program, enrollment status, and individual circumstances.
What is the average salary for J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College graduates?
J. F. Drake State Community and Technical College (Drake State) graduates earn a median salary of $27,211 after 6 years and $28,281 after 10 years.
The salary range 10 years after graduation spans from $13,620 (25th percentile) to $45,400 (75th percentile), with top earners reaching $49,500 (90th percentile).
Data based on IPEDS for 2022-2023 academic year. Salary data reflects graduates who received federal financial aid (approximately 60% of all graduates). Actual earnings may vary significantly based on program, location, and individual circumstances.