Computer Programming at Kent State University at Ashtabula

Kent State Ashtabula's computer programming associate's degree sits at a puzzling intersection: it ranks in the bottom quartile nationally but right at Ohio's median, largely because Ohio's associate-level programming programs underperform as a group. At $36,388 starting, graduates earn nearly $2,000 less than the national average, though the debt load of $20,729 remains manageable with a 0.57 debt-to-earnings ratio.

What's more concerning is the earnings trajectory—virtually flat growth over four years suggests limited advancement potential. Compare this to Cincinnati State's programming graduates who earn $56,000, demonstrating that Ohio has stronger options even at the associate's level. The small sample size (under 30 graduates) adds uncertainty to these figures, meaning one or two outliers could significantly skew the numbers either direction.

For parents considering this program, the math works but barely justifies the investment. Your child would take on moderate debt for below-average earnings that don't improve much over time. If staying near Ashtabula is essential, this provides a workable path into tech work. Otherwise, Cincinnati State or even exploring bachelor's programs at larger campuses would offer better earning potential for similar or only marginally higher debt. This isn't a disastrous choice, but it's settling for mediocre outcomes in a field where better alternatives exist within the state.