Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Essex County College

Computer tech programs in New Jersey typically deliver strong returns, with the state median reaching $51,046—about $10,000 above national figures. Essex County College's program appears to fall short of that mark, with comparable programs nationally suggesting first-year earnings around $41,752. That gap matters: you're looking at roughly $9,000 less annually than peers at other Garden State schools, though the program does edge out Brookdale's reported $40,282.

The estimated debt load of $17,500 is notably lower than both the New Jersey median ($28,174) and national median ($21,480), which provides some cushion. A 0.42 debt-to-earnings ratio means your child would owe about five months' salary—manageable by community college standards. For context, more than half the students here receive Pell grants, suggesting this program serves families where minimizing debt is critical. The lower borrowing could reflect Essex's community college pricing or students working while enrolled.

The real question is whether this associate's degree positions graduates for New Jersey's higher-paying IT roles or merely gets them started. If your child plans to transfer to complete a bachelor's degree, this could be a cost-effective foundation. If they're treating this as a terminal credential, the earnings gap compared to state peers suggests either staying local for work-life reasons or considering programs with stronger placement track records in the New Jersey market.