Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
Similar technical programs across Wisconsin suggest first-year earnings around $44,673 for associate's degree holders in computer programming—a figure that puts these graduates roughly $6,600 ahead of the national median and comfortably above what most community college programs produce. Combined with an estimated debt load of $13,812, this translates to manageable repayment: roughly three months of gross income, well within the range financial experts recommend for technical credentials.
The challenge here is visibility. When graduate cohorts are too small to report publicly, it's harder to verify whether this specific program matches the state's technical college pattern. Peer programs at Fox Valley Technical College demonstrate that Wisconsin's tech colleges can produce strong outcomes in this field—some reaching above $54,000—while others hover closer to the state median. The difference often comes down to curriculum focus, employer partnerships, and regional job markets. Green Bay's manufacturing and logistics sectors may offer different opportunities than other Wisconsin metros.
For families weighing this investment, the estimated numbers align with what makes technical education viable: relatively modest debt paired with immediate earning potential in a field with consistent demand. The low Pell percentage (17%) suggests this isn't attracting the most economically vulnerable students, which may reflect either program selectivity or simply a different student demographic. If your child has clear interest in software development or IT support roles, the Wisconsin technical college system has demonstrated it can deliver value—but connecting directly with Northeast Wisconsin Technical College about job placement rates and employer connections would help confirm this particular program follows that pattern.
Where Northeast Wisconsin Technical College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer programming associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Computer Programming associates's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (17 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $4,904 | $44,673* | — | $13,812* | — | |
| $4,916 | $54,652* | $61,493 | $13,812* | 0.25 | |
| $4,724 | $44,673* | $58,277 | $18,000* | 0.40 | |
| $4,853 | $41,728* | — | $9,833* | 0.24 | |
| 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 Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, approximately 17% 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 median of 3 similar programs in WI. Actual outcomes may vary.