Analysis
Wisconsin's technical colleges turn out strong-earning computer programming graduates, and the estimated figures here—$44,673 in first-year earnings against $13,812 in debt—reflect that statewide pattern. This 0.31 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests a manageable financial outcome, with graduates potentially repaying their loans within the first year if they're aggressive about it. That aligns with what we see across the state's technical college system, where programming programs consistently produce graduates who can handle their debt load.
The challenge is uncertainty. Because actual outcomes for Lakeshore's graduates aren't published due to small sample sizes, we're working with statewide medians from just three programs. Fox Valley Technical College's reported figure of $54,652 shows there's variation within Wisconsin—some programs clearly launch students into higher-earning positions. Whether Lakeshore's graduates fall closer to Fox Valley's performance or to Gateway's lower $41,728 depends on factors these estimates can't capture: employer connections, curriculum specifics, and local job market dynamics in the Cleveland area.
For families evaluating this program, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value, especially compared to the national median debt of $17,108. But talk to Lakeshore directly about graduate placement and starting salaries for their specific program before committing. The statewide data provides a baseline—the school's actual track record will tell you whether this program consistently meets it.
Where Lakeshore Technical College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer programming associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Computer Programming associates's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (17 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,649 | $44,673* | — | $13,812* | — | |
| $4,916 | $54,652* | $61,493 | $13,812* | 0.25 | |
| $4,724 | $44,673* | $58,277 | $18,000* | 0.40 | |
| $4,853 | $41,728* | — | $9,833* | 0.24 | |
| National Median | — | $38,086* | — | $17,108* | 0.45 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer programming graduates
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Network Support Specialists
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Lakeshore Technical College, approximately 18% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in WI. Actual outcomes may vary.