Carpentry/Carpenter.
Data details: Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity, and summary are for this specific degree (6-digit CIP) from IPEDS. Salary, debt, and related financial outcomes are based on the degree category (4-digit CIP) from the College Scorecard API. ← Back to search
All data shown below (except Graduation rate, gender, ethnicity) is based on the category, not just this specific degree.
Please use your own discretion when interpreting these results. For certain degrees, a limited number of institutions report to the government's College Scorecard API, which may cause the data to be skewed or less representative of national trends. Consider these figures as informative but not definitive, and consult additional sources or advisors for important decisions.
Debt to Income Ratio
Why Carpentry/Carpenter. stands out: With a debt-to-income ratio of just 39.1%, graduates of this program typically enjoy manageable student loan payments compared to their first-year earnings. This low ratio means that, on average, students who complete Carpentry/Carpenter. can expect to pay off their student debt faster and with less financial stress than most other fields. Programs with a DTI below 0.5 are considered excellent by financial experts, making this degree a smart investment for your future.
For example, with a median salary of $31195 and average student debt of $12197, the financial outlook for Carpentry/Carpenter. graduates is especially strong in .
Key Insights
Carpentry/Carpenter. is a program that attracts motivated students who want to make an impact. Starting pay for new grads is typically $31195, and with an average debt of $12197, the debt-to-income ratio comes in at 0.39—meaning you’ll have lots of flexibility after graduation.
This program sees about 4214 graduates annually, so you’ll be joining a well-established network. Whether you’re aiming for a high-paying job, a stable career, or a chance to make an impact, Carpentry/Carpenter. is a great foundation. Remember, your journey is shaped by the opportunities you pursue—so get involved and stay curious!
Degree Overview
Carpentry/Carpenter (CIP 46.0201) is a skilled construction trade focused on building, installing, and repairing structures made primarily from wood and other structural materials. Carpenters are the backbone of residential, commercial, and industrial construction, responsible for everything from framing houses and installing doors to building staircases, cabinetry, and structural components. This degree prepares students for hands-on careers that combine technical skill, craftsmanship, and problem-solving with strong job demand and long-term career flexibility.
For a degree search site, Carpentry/Carpenter represents versatility, creativity, and practical independence. Carpentry skills are essential across nearly all construction projects, making this trade one of the most employable and adaptable within the industry. This degree appeals to students who want a tangible, skill-based career with clear pathways to advancement, specialization, or business ownership rather than a desk-based role.
What Is a Carpentry/Carpenter Degree?
A Carpentry/Carpenter degree or certificate is a workforce-focused training program that teaches the fundamental skills needed to work as a professional carpenter. Unlike general construction programs, this degree concentrates on wood construction, structural framing, interior finishing, and precise measurement and layout.
This degree typically focuses on:
- Structural framing and layout
- Reading blueprints and building plans
- Woodworking and material selection
- Installation of doors, windows, and trim
- Safety practices and jobsite procedures
Trade schools, community colleges, and apprenticeship programs offer this degree to:
- Prepare students for entry-level carpentry and construction roles
- Support apprenticeship placement with unions or contractors
- Provide a foundation for advanced carpentry specialties
- Address consistent demand for skilled carpenters
Carpentry programs emphasize hands-on learning and real-world construction scenarios.
What Will You Learn?
Students learn how to measure, cut, assemble, and install wood-based structures accurately and safely. You’ll be trained to frame floors, walls, and roofs, install finishes, and interpret building plans while following local building codes.
The curriculum emphasizes precision, craftsmanship, and efficiency. Students also learn how to troubleshoot problems on-site, adapt to design changes, and work effectively as part of a construction team.
Core Skills You’ll Build
Graduates typically develop skills such as:
- Structural framing—walls, floors, and roofs
- Measurement, layout, and geometry—accuracy and alignment
- Blueprint and plan reading—construction drawings
- Tool and equipment operation—hand and power tools
- Finish carpentry—trim, molding, and cabinetry
- Material selection and handling—wood and composites
- Building code awareness—safety and compliance
- Jobsite communication and teamwork—coordination with trades
These skills are transferable across many construction and building environments.
Topics You May Explore
Coursework in a carpentry program commonly includes:
- Introduction to Carpentry: tools, materials, and safety
- Construction Math and Measurement: calculations and layout
- Blueprint Reading and Specifications: interpreting plans
- Framing Techniques: residential and commercial framing
- Roof Systems and Stair Construction: structural components
- Finish Carpentry and Trim Work: detailed interior work
- Cabinetmaking and Millwork: custom woodworking
- Construction Codes and Regulations: compliance standards
- Jobsite Practices and Project Sequencing: workflow coordination
Many programs incorporate real build projects and jobsite simulations.
What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?
A Carpentry/Carpenter degree prepares students for immediate employment in construction or apprenticeship programs, with advancement based on skill and experience.
Common career paths include:
- Carpenter or Carpenter’s Apprentice: residential and commercial work
- Framing Carpenter: structural construction
- Finish Carpenter: interior detail work
- Cabinetmaker or Millworker: custom wood projects
- Construction Technician or Installer: project support
- Foreman or Crew Lead: supervising carpentry teams
- Self-Employed Carpenter or Contractor: business ownership
Experienced carpenters often diversify into specialized or leadership roles.
Where Can You Work?
Graduates work in settings where wood construction and installation are required:
- Residential construction companies
- Commercial and industrial contractors
- Custom home builders and remodelers
- Finish carpentry and millwork shops
- Facilities and maintenance departments
- Union apprenticeship programs
- Self-employed or small contracting businesses
Carpentry skills are in demand across nearly every construction project.
How Much Can You Earn?
Earnings vary by experience, specialization, and location.
Typical ranges include:
- Entry-level carpenters or apprentices: often $40,000–$50,000
- Experienced journeyman carpenters: commonly $55,000–$75,000
- Master carpenters, foremen, or contractors: can reach $80,000–$110,000+
Union benefits, overtime, specialization, and business ownership can significantly increase income.
Is This Degree Hard?
Carpentry/Carpenter is considered physically demanding and precision-focused. Academically, coursework is accessible and applied, but success requires stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work accurately under pressure.
The challenge lies in consistently producing high-quality work while meeting deadlines and safety standards.
Who Should Consider This Degree?
This degree may be a strong fit if you:
- Enjoy hands-on building and problem-solving
- Like working with tools and materials
- Take pride in craftsmanship and accuracy
- Want strong job demand without a four-year degree
- Are interested in construction leadership or self-employment
How to Prepare in High School
To prepare for a carpentry program:
- Take math, geometry, and shop or construction courses
- Develop strong measurement, spatial reasoning, and problem-solving skills
- Learn basic tool use and safety practices
- Participate in construction or trade-focused programs if available
- Build physical stamina and responsibility
Carpentry/Carpenter (CIP 46.0201) is a versatile and respected skilled trade for students who want to build real, lasting structures. It offers hands-on mastery, steady demand, and multiple pathways for advancement without requiring a traditional academic degree. For those who value craftsmanship, independence, and tangible results, carpentry provides a strong foundation for a rewarding and flexible career.
Personality Fit (RIASEC Profile)
Official assessment tool by the U.S. Department of Labor