Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Brookdale Community College

Brookdale's IT management program sits in an uncomfortable spot: first-year earnings of $40,282 trail most other New Jersey community colleges offering this degree, landing in the 25th percentile statewide. That's $10,000 below the state median for comparable programs, a significant gap in a market where location matters for tech salaries. While the national picture looks average—with this program tracking close to the $41,752 national median—competing against stronger NJ programs like Strayer (where graduates earn $61,810) puts Brookdale students at a noticeable disadvantage.

The estimated debt load of $17,500 offers some relief, particularly when compared to the $28,174 typical for IT programs across New Jersey. Similar programs nationally suggest this 0.43 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable, and the 32% earnings growth to $53,256 by year four shows genuine progression. But that fourth-year number still lags behind what other Garden State graduates earn right out of the gate.

For New Jersey families, this creates a dilemma. The lower estimated debt is attractive, but your child would be starting their tech career earning substantially less than peers from other nearby programs. If staying local is essential and cost is the priority, this works—just know they'll likely need to climb further to reach competitive NJ tech salaries. If flexibility exists, exploring other community college options in the state makes sense given the earnings gap.