Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Bryant & Stratton College-Syracuse North

Bryant & Stratton's IT management associate program shows something surprising: while graduates start at just $31,581—well below the national median of $41,752—they see 36% earnings growth by year four, reaching $42,861. That four-year number actually exceeds typical national outcomes for this degree. The pattern suggests either delayed career launches or a curriculum that takes time to translate into workplace value.

The state context matters here. New York's IT associate programs generally underperform national benchmarks, and this program sits right at the state median. It's not an outlier—it's typical for the New York market, which may reflect regional differences in how associate-level IT credentials are valued. With 65% of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are choosing an accessible path over a higher-earning one, accepting that tradeoff for lower barriers to entry.

The $23,137 debt load is reasonable given the eventual earnings trajectory, though that sub-$32,000 starting salary creates a tight first year financially. If your student can weather those early years—perhaps living at home or working full-time while studying—the improving earnings picture looks manageable. But families counting on immediate financial independence after graduation should understand this isn't a quick-payoff credential, even if it ultimately catches up.