Computer and Information Sciences at Navajo Technical University

Based on comparable programs nationally, an associate's in Computer and Information Sciences suggests first-year earnings around $36,000—right at the national median for this credential. The estimated $12,500 in debt falls below the national median of $15,000, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35. For context, Central New Mexico Community College's graduates in this field earn $34,156, suggesting the national estimate may be reasonable for New Mexico's market.

What matters most here is that nearly half of Navajo Technical University's students receive Pell grants, indicating this program serves predominantly lower-income students for whom IT skills can provide economic mobility. Computer science associate's degrees typically offer solid entry points into help desk, network support, and junior developer roles. The estimated debt burden—representing about 4 months of first-year earnings—is light enough that graduates should be able to manage payments even in entry-level positions.

The caveat is significant: without actual graduate outcomes from this specific program, you're making a decision based on what similar programs typically produce. For a tribal college serving a unique geographic area and student population, outcomes could vary considerably from national norms. If your child is considering this program, request placement rates and specific employer partnerships from the university directly—that ground-level information will tell you more than these national estimates can.