Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at North Carolina A & T State University

North Carolina A&T's IT management program punches well above its weight class nationally—graduates earn $72,961 in their first year, placing them in the 91st percentile compared to similar programs across the country. That's nearly $15,000 more than the national median and $9,000 above what typical NC graduates in this field make. With $27,000 in median debt, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 means graduates owe about four and a half months of income, a manageable burden that most can pay down quickly given their strong starting salaries.

The 60th percentile ranking within North Carolina might initially seem modest, but context matters: there are only five schools offering this program in the state, and NC A&T significantly outperforms the only comparable program with public data (Campbell University's $54,232). The school serves a predominantly middle-class student body—51% receive Pell grants—yet delivers outcomes that rival far more selective institutions. The moderate sample size of 30-100 graduates suggests consistent, reliable data rather than a statistical fluke.

For families weighing the investment, this represents a straightforward value proposition. The combination of below-average debt with significantly above-average earnings creates financial breathing room right out of the gate, and tech careers typically offer strong growth trajectories beyond that first-year figure.