Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 suggests manageable repayment terms, with estimated first-year earnings of $39,118 against roughly $12,500 in borrowing based on peer community college programs nationwide. However, Virginia's computer science market tells a different story than national averages. Similar programs in the state typically produce first-year earnings near $49,000—about $10,000 higher than what national patterns suggest for Brightpoint graduates. Northern Virginia Community College, with actual reported outcomes, hits that state median exactly, indicating that location and perhaps institutional connections play significant roles in tech employment prospects.
The gap between estimated and state-typical outcomes isn't trivial. An extra $10,000 annually represents faster debt payoff, stronger financial footing during early career years, and potentially better positioning for the next credential or job move. Whether Brightpoint's program matches state peers or falls closer to the national baseline depends on factors the limited data can't reveal—employer relationships, curriculum currency, proximity to tech hubs, or transfer pathway strength. Given Virginia's robust tech corridor, particularly around Northern Virginia and Richmond, the physical location near Richmond could matter substantially for internship and employment access.
For families considering this program, the estimated figures suggest reasonable borrowing levels but also highlight uncertainty about competitive positioning within Virginia's market. If strong transfer agreements or employer partnerships exist, this could be a solid foundation; if those connections are weaker, the program might not deliver the state-typical outcomes that make Virginia's computer science programs attractive investments.
Where Brightpoint Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Virginia
Computer Science associates's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,938 | $39,118* | — | $12,458* | — | |
| $5,703 | $48,889* | $81,847 | $13,000* | 0.27 | |
| National Median | — | $39,118* | — | $12,458* | 0.32 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Brightpoint Community College, approximately 21% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 6 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.