Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Marion Technical College

Similar IT administration programs in Ohio suggest first-year earnings around $41,800—solidly aligned with both state and national norms for this credential. That's meaningful income for an associate degree, though it falls short of top performers like Cincinnati State, which pushes just over $42,000. The estimated $17,500 in debt is notably lower than both the state median of $23,100 and the national benchmark of $21,500, which could reflect Marion Technical's approach to keeping costs manageable for students.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 suggests graduates from comparable programs typically owe less than half their first-year salary—a reasonable starting point that should allow for manageable repayment while building career momentum. IT administration roles often reward experience and certifications more than entry credentials alone, so this associate degree functions best as a launching pad rather than a destination. Students who leverage internships or pursue additional certifications during the program tend to see faster salary growth.

The key limitation here is uncertainty: with both earnings and debt estimated from peer programs, your child's actual outcome depends heavily on Marion Technical's specific employer connections and curriculum quality. Before committing, talk to recent graduates directly and ask the school for placement rates with local employers. An affordable entry point only delivers value if it actually opens doors in Ohio's IT market.