Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Albany Technical College

Based on similar IT administration programs in Georgia, graduates can expect around $36,000 in first-year earnings—solidly below the $41,752 national median for this credential. The estimated $17,500 in debt yields a manageable 0.49 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning roughly half a year's salary to repay what's borrowed. That's significantly better than Georgia's typical $25,849 debt load for this program, suggesting Albany Tech may offer a more affordable path than many alternatives.

The challenge lies in the earnings gap. Top-performing Georgia programs like Strayer and Chattahoochee Technical produce graduates earning $60,000+ and $44,000+ respectively, while Albany Tech's peer programs cluster closer to the state median. For a school serving 62% Pell-eligible students, this affordability advantage matters—but families should understand they're likely trading higher immediate earnings for lower debt exposure.

The practical question is whether $36,000 is enough to support your child's independence while managing loan payments. In Albany's lower cost-of-living environment, this starting point may stretch further than the same salary would in metro Atlanta. But if your child has options at programs with stronger earnings outcomes and comparable debt, those warrant serious consideration. The debt burden here won't sink them, but the earnings trajectory may limit how quickly they can advance financially.