Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Hennepin Technical College

At first glance, Hennepin Technical College's IT program might seem solid but unexceptional—starting salaries of $46,775 sit just above the national median. But watch what happens next: by year four, graduates are earning $59,299, representing 27% growth that significantly outpaces typical associate degree trajectories. This earnings acceleration suggests graduates are landing roles with genuine advancement potential rather than dead-end positions.

The debt picture reinforces this program's practicality. At roughly $21,000, it's nearly identical to both national and state medians, giving you a manageable 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio. That means graduates are earning more than double their debt within the first year—a healthy starting point that only improves as salaries climb. Among Minnesota's 20 IT programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, trailing Dakota County Technical's top performers but leading half the field while keeping costs in check.

For families evaluating two-year tech programs, this represents a straightforward path to middle-class earnings with room to grow. The combination of modest debt, above-average starting pay, and strong wage progression over four years suggests employers value these graduates enough to promote them. That's exactly what you want from an associate degree investment.