Computer and Information Sciences at Brightpoint Community College

Brightpoint's associate degree in computer science stands out for keeping debt exceptionally low while delivering solid earnings. At $8,250, graduates carry roughly half the state median debt and significantly less than the $14,932 national median—landing this program in the 95th percentile nationally for affordability. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.20, graduates can realistically pay off their loans in a matter of months, not years.

First-year earnings of $40,984 match Virginia's median exactly and exceed the national median by about $5,000, though nearby Tidewater Community College does push graduates slightly higher at $45,084. Still, for a two-year degree that costs less than many trade certifications, these numbers represent strong earning potential right out of school. The combination of minimal debt and above-average earnings creates an unusually clean financial picture.

The significant caveat: this data reflects fewer than 30 graduates, so outcomes could vary more than typical. That said, the fundamentals look promising—community college IT programs in Virginia have consistently good track records, and Brightpoint appears to fit that pattern. If your child is interested in getting into tech work quickly without accumulating substantial debt, this program offers a low-risk entry point with immediate earning potential.