Computer and Information Sciences at Chattanooga State Community College

Chattanooga State's computer science associate program punches above its weight nationally but sits in the middle of Tennessee's community college pack. Starting at $41,400—above both state and national medians—graduates earn more than peers at 14 of the 17 Tennessee schools offering this degree. That 60th percentile state ranking matters because you're competing with in-state options like Pellissippi State ($44,224) and Nashville State ($42,160), but you're clearly outperforming budget alternatives like Southwest Tennessee.

The 27% earnings jump to $52,697 by year four is particularly strong for an associate degree, suggesting graduates are successfully translating their credentials into career advancement rather than hitting early salary ceilings. With debt at $16,484—manageable at just 40% of first-year earnings—you're looking at a reasonable payback timeline even if your student starts at the lower end of the salary range.

The catch? This performs solidly but not exceptionally in Tennessee's competitive community college landscape. If Chattanooga is your natural choice for location or cost reasons, this program delivers clear value. But if you're equally positioned to attend Pellissippi or Nashville State, those programs show slightly stronger earning outcomes that might justify the comparison shopping.