Data Processing at Delgado Community College

Delgado's Data Processing program starts slow but catches up fast—graduates earn just $28,515 in their first year, placing them in the bottom fifth nationally, but by year four they've reached $40,150, a 41% jump that brings them closer to what stronger programs deliver initially. That steep earnings trajectory suggests graduates may be landing entry-level positions that lead to better opportunities, though the delayed payoff means living on a tight budget in those early years. With limited Louisiana comparison data (only two schools offer this program statewide), it's worth noting Delgado sits at the state median for both earnings and debt.

The $17,418 debt load is manageable—about seven months of first-year salary—but the real question is whether families can weather those lean initial years in New Orleans, where $28,515 doesn't stretch far. The program serves a predominantly Pell-eligible population (62%), and for students needing immediate income, this timeline may be challenging.

If your child can supplement that first-year income through family support or part-time work while building experience, this could work out reasonably well by year four. But if they need to be financially independent right away, look for programs where starting salaries hit $35,000 or higher from day one.