Computer and Information Sciences at Madisonville Community College

Madisonville Community College's computer certificate program sits in the middle of Kentucky's community college tech offerings, but that's concerning when other Kentucky schools are producing significantly better outcomes. While graduates here earn $34,207—roughly on par with the state median—nearby Gateway Community and Technical College's graduates earn $45,428 from the same credential, a difference of over $11,000 annually. The debt load of $13,757 is slightly higher than Kentucky's typical $10,875, though the 0.40 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable.

The 40th percentile state ranking tells the real story: this program delivers middle-of-the-road results in a state where top community college tech programs perform much stronger. For a parent weighing options, this matters because Kentucky offers several alternatives within the community college system that provide the same credential with better earnings potential. The small sample size (under 30 graduates) adds uncertainty—these numbers could shift significantly with more data.

If your child is set on staying local to Madisonville, this certificate won't bury them in debt and offers a reasonable starting salary. But if commuting or relocating to Bowling Green, Lexington, or Louisville is feasible, programs at Gateway or Jefferson Community and Technical College deliver notably better financial returns for the same time and credential investment.