Computer and Information Sciences at Northern Essex Community College

A $15,625 debt load at Northern Essex sits above the Massachusetts median of $9,307 for associate's in computer science, though it's hardly catastrophic given where earnings land by year four. Similar programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $35,761, which means graduates can expect to pay roughly 44 cents in debt for every dollar earned initially—manageable territory. By year four, that $50,853 median represents substantial growth and puts this program within striking distance of what Mount Wachusett's graduates earn right out of the gate.

The comparison to other Massachusetts community colleges matters here. While Bristol's program produces slightly lower first-year outcomes, Mount Wachusett edges ahead by about $4,000—a difference that could reflect employer networks or regional job markets rather than program quality alone. Northern Essex serves a significant population of Pell-eligible students (33%), and the debt-to-earnings picture suggests the program delivers on the associate's degree promise: affordable entry into a field with clear wage progression.

The four-year earnings jump is what validates the investment. Moving from an estimated $35,761 to over $50,000 demonstrates that employers value the skills gained and that career ladders exist. For parents weighing a two-year program against immediate employment or a four-year track, this data suggests Northern Essex provides a legitimate middle path—especially if your child can work while studying or transfer credits later.