Computer Programming at Chandler-Gilbert Community College
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
cgc.maricopa.eduAnalysis
Arizona's computer programming landscape skews significantly higher than what these national-based estimates suggest for Chandler-Gilbert. While similar certificate programs nationally produce first-year earnings around $44,000, Arizona's actual reported outcomes—like University of Phoenix's $60,500—demonstrate that the state's tech market supports substantially better returns. This $17,000 gap between the national estimate and Arizona's median tells you that peer programs in this state are achieving markedly different results, likely reflecting Phoenix's growing tech sector.
The estimated debt load of $13,300 appears manageable at face value, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.30 that's well within reasonable territory. However, when you're potentially earning closer to what other Arizona programs deliver, that same debt becomes even easier to service. The challenge here is uncertainty: without actual outcome data from Chandler-Gilbert's graduates, you're essentially banking on their program performing more like Arizona peers than the national baseline used for these estimates.
For parents considering this investment, the Arizona context matters more than national averages. If Chandler-Gilbert's graduates land jobs comparable to other local programs, this could be a solid value proposition with quick debt payoff. But you'd want to dig into the school's job placement track record and employer connections before committing, since these estimates can't tell you whether their graduates actually capture Arizona's higher-paying opportunities or settle closer to national norms.
Where Chandler-Gilbert Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer programming certificate's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Arizona
Computer Programming certificate's programs at peer institutions in Arizona (20 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2,358 | $43,727* | — | $13,274* | — | |
| $9,552 | $60,496* | — | $14,431* | 0.24 | |
| National Median | — | $43,727* | — | $14,340* | 0.33 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer programming graduates
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Network Support Specialists
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 Chandler-Gilbert Community College, approximately 11% 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 5 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.