Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Columbia Basin College

Columbia Basin College delivers something unusual in tech education: exceptionally low debt paired with earnings that beat the national average but trail other Washington programs. At $18,618, graduates carry just two-thirds the typical debt load for this degree nationwide—placing this program in the 95th percentile for affordability. The first-year salary of $59,559 edges above the national median, yet sits $6,500 below Washington's state median, suggesting local market dynamics may limit earning potential compared to Seattle-area programs.

The 0.31 debt-to-earnings ratio tells the practical story: graduates owe roughly four months of their starting salary, a manageable burden that allows quicker financial freedom than most IT programs. For families prioritizing affordability—especially those benefiting from in-state tuition at this community college—the financial risk is minimal. However, parents should weigh this against the earnings gap: Western Washington University grads start $13,000 higher, though presumably with more debt.

This program works best for students seeking a cost-effective entry into tech rather than maximum earning potential. The combination of low debt and above-average national earnings creates a solid foundation, even if Washington's competitive tech market means faster wealth-building may require additional credentials or strategic job hunting. For families watching every dollar, the limited debt exposure makes this a low-risk pathway into IT careers.