Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at City Colleges of Chicago-Kennedy-King College

Based on comparable IT management programs in Illinois, Kennedy-King's associate degree points to first-year earnings around $42,000—right at the state median. That's meaningful context: this two-year credential appears positioned squarely in the middle of what similar Illinois programs deliver, neither exceptionally strong nor weak compared to peers like Southwestern Illinois College ($46,355) or Morrison Institute of Technology ($39,065).

The estimated debt load of $17,500 creates a manageable 0.42 debt-to-earnings ratio, below both the state median ($16,740) and well below the national figure ($21,480). For families watching costs, this suggests Kennedy-King students typically borrow less than peers at comparable programs elsewhere. At Chicago's community college pricing, that makes practical sense—though remember these are estimates drawn from similar schools, not tracked outcomes specific to Kennedy-King graduates.

The question for parents is whether $42,000 represents adequate launch pay for their child's career goals. IT management roles often require climbing several rungs before reaching comfortable salaries, and an associate degree may limit advancement without additional credentials. If your student plans to work while pursuing a bachelor's degree later, this program offers a relatively low-debt entry point into the field. If they're stopping at the associate level, understand that initial earnings may feel tight in Chicago's cost environment, even with modest borrowing.