Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Manhattan Area Technical College

Computer technology programs in Kansas cluster around $42,000 in starting earnings, and this program's trajectory aligns with that pattern—though both the first-year and debt figures here are estimated from national peer programs rather than actual outcomes for Manhattan Area Technical graduates. The estimated $17,500 in debt sits notably below both the Kansas median ($20,852) and national median ($21,480) for this credential, suggesting a relatively conservative borrowing environment at this technical college.

The jump to $56,348 by year four represents meaningful growth—nearly 35% over the starting estimate. That progression matters because associate's degrees in IT administration don't always command strong early salaries, but the skills often translate to steady advancement as graduates move from help desk roles into systems administration or network management positions. The estimated debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 suggests manageable repayment if the first-year estimate holds true, though remember these figures come from comparable programs nationwide, not tracked outcomes from this specific school.

For parents weighing this investment, the key question is whether your student can leverage Manhattan's lower estimated debt load into career momentum. Technical college IT programs work best for students who'll pursue certifications alongside the degree and who can tap into local employer networks—Kansas State University's presence in Manhattan may create IT support opportunities. Just recognize you're making this decision with limited visibility into how this particular program's graduates actually fare.