Computer and Information Sciences at Florida Career College-Tampa

Florida Career College-Tampa's computer science associate's program sits at an interesting crossroads: it performs below the national median ($33,899 vs. $35,760), yet lands at the 60th percentile among Florida programs. This tells you something important about Florida's IT job market—many associate's programs in the state produce modest earnings, and this one falls right in the middle of that pack.

The $18,391 debt load is manageable at just over half of first-year earnings, giving graduates a realistic path to paying it off. However, the flat earnings trajectory—essentially identical pay four years out—should concern you. Most IT careers reward experience with raises, but graduates here aren't seeing that pattern. This could indicate they're landing in entry-level roles without clear advancement paths, or that the skills taught aren't translating into higher-value positions over time.

The small sample size (under 30 graduates) makes these numbers less reliable than you'd want for a major financial decision. Combined with the stagnant earnings and below-national-average starting pay, this program looks risky compared to public community college alternatives that would cost less and likely deliver similar outcomes. If your child is set on a two-year IT degree in Tampa, push them to compare carefully with Hillsborough Community College or other public options that serve similar student populations but with lower costs.