Computer Software and Media Applications at Dunwoody College of Technology

Dunwoody's software program punches well above its weight nationally—graduates earn nearly double the national median for this associate's degree—but faces stiffer competition at home. While placing in the 95th percentile nationwide sounds impressive, that 60th percentile ranking among Minnesota programs tells the more relevant story for most students. Still, $52,264 starting out is solid for a two-year degree, and the strong upward trajectory to $68,000 by year four suggests graduates are building marketable skills that employers value over time.

The $20,000 debt load sits exactly at Minnesota's median for this program, making the real question whether the earnings justify it. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38, graduates should be able to manage repayment while the earnings growth indicates career progression rather than stagnation. That 30% jump from year one to year four is particularly encouraging—many two-year programs see graduates plateau earlier.

The caveat here matters: we're looking at fewer than 30 graduates, so one unusually successful (or struggling) cohort could skew these numbers significantly. For families considering this investment, the key insight is that you're paying Minnesota-average debt for Minnesota-average outcomes in a field with strong national demand. The 98% admission rate and accessible entry requirements mean most applicants will get in; the question is whether this specific program justifies the cost when other Minnesota schools offer the same credential at similar prices.