Computer and Information Sciences at Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

Keiser's tech associate program outearns 60% of similar programs in Florida, but carries significantly more debt than most—putting it in just the 7th percentile nationally for affordability. With a $24,517 debt load against $35,883 starting earnings, graduates face a debt-to-income ratio of 0.68, substantially higher than the national median debt of $14,932 for this degree. That's roughly $10,000 more in borrowing than typical for an associate's in computer sciences.

The earnings picture itself is reasonably solid. Graduates earn slightly above both the national and state medians, and see modest 8% growth to $38,599 by year four. For Florida students specifically, this program performs better than the state median of $33,899. However, the real concern is whether that earnings edge justifies nearly double the typical debt burden. At a school with 97% admission rates serving many Pell-eligible students, taking on this much debt for an associate degree merits serious consideration.

The math works, but just barely. Graduates can manage this debt on these salaries, but there's little margin for error. If your child can access more affordable options—community colleges offering similar tech programs typically cost half as much—those deserve a hard look first. This program delivers results, but at a premium price point for a two-year degree.