Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Moraine Valley Community College

Four years out, graduates from IT management programs like this one earn $57,297—a substantial jump that suggests solid career progression in tech. But the path to get there involves some uncertainty. Based on comparable associate's programs in Illinois, first-year earnings start around $42,043, which aligns with both state and national medians for this field. That's a reasonable entry point, though not spectacular compared to the strongest IT programs in the state.

The estimated debt load of $17,500 is actually more favorable than typical for this credential—below both the state median ($16,740) and well under the national figure ($21,480). At 42% of first-year earnings, this debt level is manageable, assuming those initial earnings estimates hold true for Moraine Valley's specific graduates. The four-year earnings figure suggests IT positions with real advancement potential, which matters when you're looking at return on investment.

The challenge is that both the starting salary and debt figures are drawn from peer programs rather than this school's actual outcomes, which means there's less certainty about what your child would specifically experience here. That said, the trajectory from $42,000 to $57,000 in three years indicates that technical skills translate into wage growth. If your child is serious about IT and the community college price point fits your budget, the estimated debt burden shouldn't be overwhelming—but verify job placement rates and employer connections before committing.