Computer Programming at Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City
Associate's Degree
Analysis
Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City turns in one of the stronger performances among Missouri's computer programming programs—solid middle-of-the-pack statewide at the 60th percentile, but notably above the national median by over $8,000. More impressive is how this gap widens: by year four, graduates earn nearly $61,000, a 29% jump that suggests employers value the practical skills this program builds. At just $11,000 in debt, students here borrow 40% less than the typical programming associate's degree graduate nationally.
The economics work clearly in students' favor. With debt representing just three months of first-year earnings, graduates can realistically pay down loans quickly while building savings. That low debt burden is especially meaningful for the 30% of students here on Pell grants, who often face tighter financial margins. While Ranken Technical shows similar outcomes, Metropolitan Community College delivers comparable career preparation at a more accessible debt level.
For Kansas City families looking at tech careers without bachelor's degree debt, this program offers a practical on-ramp. The strong earnings trajectory suggests employers see these graduates as capable contributors, not just entry-level hires treading water.
Where Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer programming associates's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City graduates compare to all programs nationally
Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City graduates earn $47k, placing them in the 80th percentile of all computer programming associates programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri
Computer Programming associates's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (9 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City | $46,804 | $60,538 | $11,038 | 0.24 |
| Ranken Technical College | $43,573 | $53,268 | $13,325 | 0.31 |
| Ozarks Technical Community College | $37,074 | $37,676 | $14,029 | 0.38 |
| National Median | $38,086 | — | $17,108 | 0.45 |
Other Computer Programming Programs in Missouri
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Missouri schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ranken Technical College Saint Louis | $17,490 | $43,573 | $13,325 |
| Ozarks Technical Community College Springfield | $4,184 | $37,074 | $14,029 |
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 Metropolitan Community College-Kansas City, approximately 30% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 35 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.