Audiovisual Communications Technologies/Technicians at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College

Cincinnati State's audiovisual tech program produces graduates earning nearly $28,000 their first year—putting them ahead of three-quarters of similar programs nationally and comfortably above Ohio's median of $25,668. That's a meaningful advantage in a field where many associate programs struggle to launch grads into living-wage work. The debt load of $13,511 translates to roughly half a year's salary, which is manageable territory for a two-year technical degree, especially when compared to the $18,000 national median for this program.

The wrinkle here is sample size—fewer than 30 graduates reported data, so one exceptional year could skew these numbers in either direction. That said, the program outperforms nearby UC-Blue Ash despite identical starting salaries, suggesting Cincinnati State delivers similar outcomes at lower debt. For parents weighing technical programs in Ohio, this combination of above-average earnings and below-state-average debt creates a reasonable risk-reward profile.

If your student is genuinely interested in broadcast production or live event work, this program appears positioned to launch them without crushing debt. Just recognize that audiovisual work can be project-based and inconsistent—that $28,000 represents the median, not a floor. The small sample size means you're making a calculated bet rather than following a well-worn path.