Computer and Information Sciences at Gateway Community and Technical College

Gateway Community and Technical College's computer science associate's degree produces graduates earning $49,753 in their first year—nearly $11,000 above the Kentucky state median and $14,000 above the national typical outcome. Among Kentucky's 21 programs, this ranks in the 80th percentile, outperforming well-regarded options like Jefferson Community and Technical College ($39,235) and Bluegrass Community and Technical College ($38,850). The $16,050 median debt sits just slightly above state and national norms, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32—meaning graduates owe roughly four months of their first-year salary.

The earnings advantage here is substantial and immediate. While many associate's degree programs require additional credentials to reach strong earning potential, Gateway's computer science grads are entering the workforce with compensation that rivals or exceeds what many bachelor's degree holders earn in other fields. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) provides reasonable confidence in these outcomes without the volatility of very small cohorts.

For families seeking an affordable entry point into tech careers, this program delivers exactly what community colleges should: strong regional job placement at a fraction of the cost and time of a four-year degree. The combination of top-quintile state performance and manageable debt makes this a clear value proposition for Kentucky students interested in IT careers.