Computer and Information Sciences at Beckfield College-Florence

Similar computer science associate programs in Kentucky typically produce first-year earnings around $38,000—right in line with what comparable programs suggest for Beckfield-Florence—but the debt picture here deserves careful attention. At an estimated $18,391, graduates are likely carrying about $3,000 more than the state median and nearly $3,500 above the national average for this degree. That difference may not sound dramatic, but with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48, it means graduates are starting with roughly six months of their annual income in student loans.

The context matters here: Kentucky's community and technical colleges dominate the top performers in this field, with Gateway Community producing graduates earning nearly $50,000 in their first year. While Beckfield serves a high proportion of Pell-eligible students (57%) who may face different circumstances, the debt estimates suggest this program costs more than peer options without clear evidence of superior outcomes. The earnings align with state norms, but when comparable programs typically generate less debt, that gap becomes significant over the repayment timeline.

For families weighing this investment, the key question is whether Beckfield's specific structure—schedule flexibility, support services, or other factors—justifies the estimated premium over Kentucky's public technical colleges. The numbers alone don't make that case, so understanding what differentiates this program from less expensive alternatives becomes essential before committing.