Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio under 0.5 typically signals manageable debt, and that's what peer programs in computer programming suggest for this associate degree—around $17,750 in debt against first-year earnings near $38,000. Nationally, this field sits in a sweet spot for two-year credentials: technical skills that translate directly to employment without the steep debt load of a bachelor's degree. With over 400 programs nationwide producing similar outcomes, there's consistency in what these credentials deliver.
The challenge here is Arizona's tech landscape. While comparable programs nationally show graduates entering the workforce around $38K, local context matters significantly for tech careers. Phoenix has a growing tech sector, but Kingman's rural location may require graduates to relocate for opportunities. Similar two-year tech programs often serve as stepping stones—graduates either move into entry-level positions immediately or transfer credits toward a bachelor's degree to access higher-level roles.
For an anxious parent, the financial picture looks reasonable based on what peer programs typically produce, but success likely depends on your child's post-graduation plan. If they're willing to move to Arizona's urban centers or continue their education, this could be a cost-effective start in tech. If they're planning to stay local in Kingman, investigate the regional job market carefully before committing.
Where Mohave Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer programming associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Computer Programming associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2,136 | $38,086* | — | $17,750* | — | |
| $4,872 | $63,559* | $56,895 | $12,000* | 0.19 | |
| $5,400 | $55,996* | $67,313 | $12,736* | 0.23 | |
| $6,128 | $55,069* | $65,758 | $22,600* | 0.41 | |
| $4,916 | $54,652* | $61,493 | $13,812* | 0.25 | |
| $7,650 | $53,874* | — | $14,827* | 0.28 | |
| 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 Mohave Community College, approximately 31% 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 national median of 30 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.