Computer Programming at Dallas College

Dallas College's computer programming associate's degree stands out remarkably in Texas—ranking in the 95th percentile statewide with median earnings of $53,830, far exceeding both the state median ($32,473) and even top-performing programs like Texas State Technical College. Nationally, it performs in the 93rd percentile, with graduates earning over $15,000 more than the typical program. The debt load of $21,908 is manageable, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41—meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under five months of gross income.

The catch? This data comes from a small cohort of fewer than 30 graduates, so these impressive numbers may not hold steady year to year. Small samples can swing dramatically based on a few outliers or the specific timing of when graduates enter the job market. That said, the combination of low debt burden (11th percentile nationally) and exceptional earnings suggests Dallas College is doing something right—whether through strong industry connections in the Dallas tech market, rigorous curriculum, or simply selecting motivated students.

For parents weighing this option, the risk-reward profile looks favorable: even if actual outcomes prove somewhat lower than these figures, the program would still likely outperform most Texas alternatives while keeping debt reasonable. Just recognize you're betting on limited data, and outcomes for your child's specific cohort could vary.