Island Drafting and Technical Institute
Amityville, NY 11701-2704 — Private For-Profit
Value Score: 75/100 | ROI Score: -19 | Affordability Score: 75/100
Tuition (In-State): $19,200 | Out-of-State: $19,200
Graduation Rate: 86.8%
Median Earnings (10yr): $62,379
Student Body Size: 30 (small)
Pell Grant Recipients: 69.8% | Federal Loan Rate: 67.9%
Average Faculty Salary: $5,833/month
Tuition & Affordability Analysis
In-state tuition at Island Drafting and Technical Institute is $19,200 per year, which is 51% below the national average for private institutions.
Out-of-state students pay $19,200/year — a premium of $0 over in-state rates. Over four years, out-of-state students pay approximately $0 more than their in-state peers.
Estimated four-year tuition cost: $76,800 (tuition only, not including room, board, and fees).
What You Actually Pay: Net Price by Family Income
The sticker price rarely reflects what families actually pay. After grants and scholarships, here is the average net price by family income bracket at Island Drafting and Technical Institute:
- Families earning $0–$30,000: $20,324/year
- Families earning $30,001–$48,000: $21,177/year
- Families earning $48,001–$75,000: $22,078/year
- Families earning $75,001–$110,000: $31,068/year
- Families earning $110,000+: $31,133/year
Graduate Outcomes & Return on Investment
86.8% of students at Island Drafting and Technical Institute complete their degree, 40% above the national average. This is an excellent graduation rate, indicating strong student support and engagement.
Graduates of Island Drafting and Technical Institute earn a median salary of $62,379 ten years after enrollment, 53% above the national average. This represents a $27,379/year earnings premium over the average high school diploma holder, or $821,370 in additional lifetime earnings over a 30-year career.
Financial Aid Profile
69.8% of students at Island Drafting and Technical Institute receive Pell Grants (federal need-based aid for families earning under ~$60,000), 112% above the national average. This high Pell rate indicates the school serves a large proportion of lower-income students and likely has strong need-based aid programs.
67.9% of students take federal loans, 45% above the national average. This high borrowing rate means most students need loans to attend. Factor loan payments into your decision carefully.
Average faculty salary: $5,833/month, 33% below the national average. Higher faculty salaries generally indicate greater investment in teaching quality and ability to attract experienced professors.
Student Body & Campus Diversity
Island Drafting and Technical Institute enrolls 30 undergraduate students. As a small institution, students can expect smaller class sizes, closer faculty relationships, and a tight-knit campus community.
Diversity Index: 75/100 (higher = more diverse). Island Drafting and Technical Institute has a highly diverse student body with strong representation across multiple racial and ethnic groups.
Student body composition: White 33%, Hispanic 37%, Black 7%, Asian 3%.
Island Drafting and Technical Institute: High Graduation Rate and Good Earnings Potential
- Island Drafting and Technical Institute: Technical Skills for the New York Job Market
- Can IDTI Deliver a Strong Return? Analyzing Your Investment in Technical Education
- Beyond the Blueprint: What Graduates of Island Drafting and Technical Institute Can Expect
Report Card: Overall Grade B-
Island Drafting and Technical Institute receives an overall grade of B- based on six dimensions:
- Academics: B-
- Value: D
- Outcomes: B
- Affordability: A
College Analysis
Island Drafting and Technical Institute is a Private For-Profit institution in Amityville, NY with approximately 30 students. Island Drafting and Technical Institute has a high graduation rate of 86.8%, indicating strong academic support. The median earnings 10 years after graduation are $62,379, suggesting a good return on investment. The institution has a relatively high affordability score of 75, making it somewhat more affordable compared to peers. The student body is diverse, with a significant Hispanic population, reflecting the local demographic.
The Verdict: Is Island Drafting and Technical Institute Worth It?
Island Drafting and Technical Institute presents a complex value proposition. With an in-state tuition of $19,200 and a reported graduation rate of 86.8%, the school aims to provide focused technical training. However, the median earnings of $62,379 over a 10-year period, coupled with a concerning ROI score of -19, suggests a significant financial challenge for graduates. The lack of reported median debt is a critical missing piece of information; without it, a full cost-benefit analysis is difficult. If graduates accrue substantial debt, the payoff timeline could be lengthy, potentially exceeding 10 years, especially if initial salaries are lower than the 10-year median. Compared to the cost of tuition, the median earnings, while respectable, do not immediately signal a strong return on investment, particularly given the negative ROI score. This score indicates that, on average, graduates are not recouping their investment within a reasonable timeframe, or the cost of education is disproportionately high relative to their earning potential. Therefore, IDTI appears to be overpriced for the financial return it offers, making it a potentially risky investment. A clear recommendation is difficult without knowing the debt figures, but based on the provided ROI, it is not a good deal.
Return on Investment
While the degree is worth the cost given the strong academic support and good earnings potential, the high tuition may be a concern for some students.
Strengths
- Strong academic support with a high graduation rate.
- Good earnings potential for graduates.
- Diverse student body.
Weaknesses
- High tuition costs.
- Lower graduation rate compared to peer institutions.
- Limited resources due to small student body.
Academic Profile
Island Drafting and Technical Institute (IDTI) offers a focused academic experience centered on preparing students for specific technical careers. While specific program details are not extensively published, the institute's nature suggests a strong emphasis on hands-on training and curriculum directly aligned with industry demands in drafting and related technical fields. Given its small size, faculty-student interaction is likely to be exceptionally high, allowing for personalized instruction and mentorship. Although faculty salaries are not provided, the high graduation rate of 86.8% suggests that students receive effective support and guidance throughout their programs. IDTI likely excels in programs such as Architectural Drafting, Mechanical Drafting, Civil Engineering Technology, or similar specialized areas, equipping students with the technical proficiency and software skills (like AutoCAD, Revit, etc.) sought by employers. Research opportunities might be project-based, integrated into coursework, rather than independent faculty-led research. Academic support resources would be tailored to the technical nature of the programs, potentially including specialized tutoring, career services focused on technical placements, and access to industry-standard equipment and software. The curriculum is designed for rapid skill acquisition, aiming to make graduates job-ready upon completion.
Financial Aid Guide for Island Drafting and Technical Institute
Pell Grant recipients: 69.8%. Students taking federal loans: 67.9%.
Navigating financial aid at Island Drafting and Technical Institute (IDTI) requires understanding its private, for-profit status and small student body. As a private institution, tuition is uniform at $19,200 for both in-state and out-of-state students. While specific data on merit aid, need-based aid, and typical aid packages are not publicly detailed, it's reasonable to infer that IDTI, like many for-profit technical schools, may offer institutional aid or payment plans to make its programs accessible. Students should prioritize completing the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to determine eligibility for federal grants (like Pell Grants, though the rate is not specified), federal student loans, and work-study programs. Given the $19,200 tuition, a significant portion of students likely rely on federal loans. For students from lower-income households (e.g., under $30,000 annual income), federal grants could cover a substantial part of tuition, with loans making up the remainder. Middle-income families might see a mix of federal loans and potentially institutional payment plans or financing options. Scholarship opportunities outside of federal aid might be limited but could exist through industry-specific organizations or local community foundations; proactive research is key. Negotiating aid at a small, specialized institute like IDTI might be less common or effective than at larger universities, as their pricing structures are often standardized. Focus on maximizing federal aid and exploring any available institutional financing options.
Hidden Costs at Island Drafting and Technical Institute
- Textbooks and software licenses for specialized drafting programs can range from $1,000 to $2,500 per year.
- Personal computer and necessary peripherals (e.g., high-quality mouse, drawing tablet) could cost between $800 and $1,500 upfront.
- Transportation costs, including fuel, vehicle maintenance, or public transit passes, may add $500 to $1,500 annually depending on commute distance.
- Tools and equipment specific to certain drafting disciplines (e.g., precision measuring tools, specialized pens) might require an initial investment of $200 to $500.
- Student activity fees or technology fees, though not explicitly listed, could amount to $100 to $300 per term.
- Off-campus housing and meal expenses, if not commuting, can easily add $10,000 to $15,000+ per year.
- Professional liability insurance or certification exam fees, depending on the program, could be an additional $300 to $800.
Alumni Outcomes & Career Paths
Island Drafting and Technical Institute (IDTI) positions its graduates for careers in specialized technical fields, primarily focusing on drafting and design. Given its small size and for-profit nature, the alumni network is likely close-knit, though perhaps not as extensive as larger institutions. Graduates typically find employment in industries such as architecture, engineering, construction (AEC), manufacturing, and product design. Major employers in the Long Island and greater New York metropolitan area that frequently hire individuals with drafting and design skills include engineering firms like AECOM, construction companies such as Turner Construction, and architectural practices like Gensler. Manufacturing companies in the region, though less prevalent than in past decades, still offer opportunities for skilled drafters.
While specific graduate school placement rates are not readily available for IDTI, the nature of its programs suggests that most graduates enter the workforce directly. The curriculum is designed for immediate job readiness rather than advanced academic pursuits. Notable alumni are not widely publicized, which is common for specialized technical institutes of this size. Career services at IDTI are crucial for its students. They likely focus on resume building, interview preparation, and connecting students with local employers seeking specific drafting skills. Internship pipelines are vital; IDTI likely cultivates relationships with local firms to provide students with hands-on experience, which often serves as a direct pathway to full-time employment. Geographic hiring patterns for IDTI graduates are heavily concentrated in the New York metropolitan area, particularly Long Island, due to the school's location and the regional demand for skilled technical professionals in construction, infrastructure, and design projects.
Campus Life & Culture at Island Drafting and Technical Institute
The student body at Island Drafting and Technical Institute is exceptionally small and likely comprises individuals highly motivated to enter specific technical professions. Students who thrive here are typically self-directed, possess a strong aptitude for spatial reasoning and technical problem-solving, and are eager to acquire practical skills for immediate career application.
Life at Island Drafting and Technical Institute (IDTI) in Amityville, NY, is intensely focused and career-oriented, reflecting its small size and specialized nature. With only about 30 students, the campus culture is less about sprawling social events and more about a tight-knit community built around shared professional goals. Forget traditional Greek life or large athletic programs; IDTI's environment is geared towards practical skill development and direct entry into the workforce. The 'vibe' is one of serious dedication, where students are highly motivated to master their chosen technical fields. Social life often revolves around shared projects, study groups, and informal gatherings among classmates who are likely to become future colleagues. Given its location in Amityville, students can explore local dining options and community events, but the primary social hub is the institute itself. Housing and dining are not provided on campus, meaning students typically arrange their own accommodations and meals, often commuting from surrounding Long Island communities. This setup fosters independence and encourages students to integrate into the local Amityville area. Student organizations, if present, would likely be highly specialized, perhaps a student chapter of a professional drafting or technical association, focused on networking and industry insights rather than broad social activities. The emphasis is on building a professional network and gaining hands-on experience, making the student experience highly productive and goal-driven.
Campus Highlights
- Highly specialized, career-focused curriculum designed for direct industry entry.
- Intimate class sizes fostering personalized instruction and strong peer relationships.
- Emphasis on hands-on training with industry-standard software and equipment.
- Strong potential for high median earnings post-graduation ($62,379 median 10yr earnings).
- High graduation rate (86.8%) indicating student success and program effectiveness.
- Located in Amityville, offering access to Long Island's professional and community resources.
- A tight-knit community where students share clear professional goals.
Location & Regional Advantages
Amityville, NY, situated on Long Island, offers Island Drafting and Technical Institute (IDTI) a strategic location within the bustling New York metropolitan area. This proximity to one of the nation's largest economic hubs provides significant advantages for graduates seeking employment. The local job market on Long Island and in adjacent New York City boroughs is robust, particularly in sectors that rely heavily on drafting and technical skills, such as construction, real estate development, infrastructure projects, and specialized manufacturing. Major industries are within easy commuting distance, including a high concentration of architectural, engineering, and construction firms.
The cost of living on Long Island can be high, especially compared to more rural areas, but it is generally more affordable than Manhattan. This balance can be attractive to graduates looking to establish careers without the extreme expenses of the city core. Quality of life on Long Island is generally good, offering a mix of suburban communities, coastal access, and cultural amenities. While weather is typical of the Northeast, with distinct seasons, it is not an extreme factor. Safety varies by community but is generally comparable to other suburban areas. The proximity to New York City acts as a powerful draw, offering a vast array of potential employers and career advancement opportunities that might not be available in more isolated technical schools. This geographic advantage allows IDTI graduates to tap into a diverse and dynamic job market, enhancing their post-graduation career prospects.
How to Get Into Island Drafting and Technical Institute
Gaining admission to Island Drafting and Technical Institute (IDTI) is likely a straightforward process focused on assessing a candidate's aptitude and commitment to a technical career, rather than high academic selectivity. With a small student body and a focus on vocational training, IDTI probably values practical skills, a strong work ethic, and clear career aspirations. The absence of SAT/ACT requirements suggests that admissions decisions are based on factors like high school transcripts (demonstrating foundational skills in math and science), a personal statement or interview, and potentially a portfolio or aptitude assessment related to drafting. Prospective students should highlight any relevant coursework, projects, or extracurricular activities that showcase their interest and ability in technical fields. A compelling essay or interview would detail specific career goals within drafting or a related technical area and explain why IDTI's focused programs are the ideal pathway. Given the school's size and mission, demonstrating genuine interest through a campus visit (if possible), attending information sessions, or engaging with admissions counselors is highly recommended. The application timeline is likely rolling, but applying early in the year, ideally several months before the intended start date, ensures maximum opportunity for enrollment and financial aid consideration.
How Island Drafting and Technical Institute Compares to Similar Schools
Similar schools: HCI College of Engineering, Lincoln Technical Institute, Apex Technical School
Advantages
- Higher graduation rate (86.8%) compared to many for-profit technical schools.
- Strong geographic placement within the New York metropolitan area, a hub for construction and design.
- Specialized focus on drafting and technical skills, potentially leading to niche job opportunities.
Disadvantages
- Significantly negative ROI score (-19), indicating poor financial return on investment.
- Lack of publicly available median debt information makes financial planning difficult.
- Small size may limit networking opportunities and breadth of career services compared to larger institutions.
Best For
- Prospective students who are looking for a close-knit learning environment with strong academic support.
- Students interested in technical and drafting fields with a focus on practical skills.
Avoid If
- Students seeking a larger student body with more diverse extracurricular activities.
- Individuals with a preference for lower tuition costs.
Frequently Asked Questions about Island Drafting and Technical Institute
How much does it cost to attend Island Drafting and Technical Institute?
In-state tuition at Island Drafting and Technical Institute is $19,200 per year, and out-of-state tuition is $19,200 per year.
What is the graduation rate at Island Drafting and Technical Institute?
Island Drafting and Technical Institute has a graduation rate of 86.8%.
How much do Island Drafting and Technical Institute graduates earn?
The median earnings for Island Drafting and Technical Institute graduates 10 years after enrollment is $62,379.
How big is Island Drafting and Technical Institute?
Island Drafting and Technical Institute has approximately 30 students and is classified as a small institution. It is located in Amityville, NY and is a Private For-Profit institution.
Is Island Drafting and Technical Institute worth the cost?
Island Drafting and Technical Institute has an ROI score of -19 out of 100. With in-state tuition of $19,200 per year and median post-graduation earnings of $62,379, the data suggests the return on investment may be below average.
Where is Island Drafting and Technical Institute located?
Island Drafting and Technical Institute is located in Amityville, NY. It is a Private For-Profit institution with approximately 30 students.
Is Island Drafting and Technical Institute a good college?
Island Drafting and Technical Institute has a graduation rate of 86.8% and median post-graduation earnings of $62,379. Small student body of 30 students, fostering a close-knit learning environment.
How does Island Drafting and Technical Institute compare to similar colleges?
Highly diverse student population with a significant Hispanic presence. Compared to peer institutions, Island Drafting and Technical Institute offers a strong academic support system and good earnings potential, but at a higher tuition cost.
What career prospects do Island Drafting and Technical Institute graduates have?
Graduates of Island Drafting and Technical Institute are well-positioned for careers in drafting and technical fields, with a median earnings of $62,379 after 10 years.
What should prospective students know about Island Drafting and Technical Institute?
Island Drafting and Technical Institute holds a niche position in the market, catering to a small but diverse student body in a technical field.
What makes Island Drafting and Technical Institute stand out?
Private for-profit institution with high tuition rates.
What are the pros and cons of attending Island Drafting and Technical Institute?
Low graduation rate compared to peer institutions.
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View on College Scorecard (Dept. of Education)
Analysis based on U.S. Department of Education data. Not enrollment advice. Verify information with the institution directly.