Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Champlain College

Champlain College graduates earn 25% more than the national average for this program right out of the gate, placing them in the top 10% nationally—a meaningful advantage worth roughly $15,000 more per year than typical IT administration graduates. The $27,000 in median debt translates to a manageable 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio, well below the 1.0 threshold that signals trouble.

The complication lies in what happens next: earnings actually dip slightly by year four rather than growing. In Vermont's limited market (only two schools offer this degree), Champlain ranks in the 60th percentile—solid but not dominant—while Norwich University graduates earn about $11,000 less initially. This suggests Champlain's strong career services or employer connections deliver immediate results, but the trajectory flattens in a way you don't typically see in tech fields.

For parents, this comes down to whether strong early earnings justify a flat growth curve. If your student plans to pursue graduate credentials or pivot to a different specialty after gaining experience, Champlain provides an excellent launching pad with minimal debt burden. The risk is that without continued skill development or role advancement, that initial salary advantage may be as good as it gets. The numbers work—just understand you're paying for a strong start rather than guaranteed trajectory.