I think you should talk to the school / athletes - what are they majoring in - at a Clarkson, which is heavy tech?
You won’t need a graduate degree with engineering.
Yes, engineering is tough - others would be better to discuss as I’m not an athlete parent but clearly there are engineers in sports.
PS - I was hoping you’d choose a smaller # 
$75K is tough - full pay is sometimes there to $95K…but with merit then lower. Or publics - will be cheaper.
Good luck.