Computer and Information Sciences at Florida Career College-Lauderdale Lakes

Florida Career College-Lauderdale Lakes graduates earn right at Florida's median for associate-level computer science programs, though this comes from a small sample size that makes firm conclusions difficult. At $33,899, earnings are slightly below the national median but squarely in the middle of Florida's competitive landscape. The concerning part: there's zero earnings growth between year one and year four, suggesting graduates may hit a ceiling quickly or struggle to advance beyond entry-level roles.

The debt load of $18,391 translates to a 0.54 debt-to-earnings ratio—manageable but not exceptional. You're looking at roughly 18 months of total earnings to pay off the debt, which is workable for someone living at home or keeping expenses tight. Still, with three-quarters of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are stretching financially, and flat earnings mean no cushion for unexpected setbacks.

For a low-income student determined to stay local in South Florida, this program offers middle-of-the-pack results compared to nearby alternatives. But the stagnant earnings trajectory is a yellow flag—your child will need to be proactive about certifications or job-hopping to increase their salary, as staying put clearly doesn't lead to raises. The small sample size means individual outcomes could vary widely from these medians.