Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Collin County Community College District

The four-year earnings figure of $64,481 tells a more compelling story than the estimated first-year number. While similar programs nationally suggest starting salaries around $41,750, this program's graduates appear to gain significant ground by year four—approaching what top-performing programs in Texas achieve at year one. That trajectory matters more than the initial starting point, especially when estimated debt of $17,500 is roughly $4,000 below the national median for this credential. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 is manageable even using the conservative first-year estimate.

Texas programs in this field vary dramatically, with outcomes ranging from $36,500 to over $61,000 at year one. Without actual first-year data for Collin County, it's impossible to know where this program lands in that spectrum. However, the four-year figure suggests graduates who stay in the field reach competitive earning levels. For a community college associate's degree, that's a reasonable outcome—particularly if your child views this as a stepping stone to either immediate employment with growth potential or a bachelor's degree down the line.

The modest debt load is the clearest advantage here. Even if earnings start on the lower end, your child won't be crushed by payments while building experience. Just understand you're working with incomplete information about the critical first year after graduation.