Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Cleveland Community College

In North Carolina's competitive IT landscape, where similar associate's programs report first-year earnings ranging from $34,500 to over $61,000, this Cleveland Community College program's estimated outcomes land squarely in the middle. Comparable programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $41,750, though North Carolina's median for these programs runs higher at $48,200—meaning this estimate may understate what local graduates actually achieve.

The estimated debt load of $17,500 is notably lower than both the national median ($21,480) and especially North Carolina's median ($27,012) for these programs. That puts the debt-to-earnings ratio at a manageable 0.42, meaning graduates would owe less than half a year's salary. For context, community college IT programs serving similar populations typically produce debt burdens that students can handle on entry-level tech salaries, and this estimated profile follows that pattern.

The challenge is that nearly half of Cleveland's students receive Pell grants, suggesting many come from lower-income backgrounds where even $17,500 in debt represents significant risk. Without actual outcome data for this specific program, you're relying on national averages that may not reflect local employer demand or the strength of Cleveland's industry connections. If your child can minimize borrowing through community college affordability advantages and has clear pathways to NC's stronger-earning IT jobs, the fundamentals look reasonable—but verify the school's actual placement success before committing.