Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Owens Community College

An associate's degree in IT administration typically carries manageable debt loads, and similar programs in Ohio suggest this pattern holds true here. Based on three comparable associate's programs statewide, first-year earnings hover around $42,000—nearly matching the national median for this credential. The estimated debt of $17,500 sits well below both Ohio's typical $23,000 and the national median, putting the debt-to-earnings ratio at a comfortable 0.42. That's roughly five months of gross income, making it one of the more digestible debt burdens for a two-year technical degree.

The challenge is that peer programs in Ohio show these earnings tend to stabilize rather than climb dramatically. The state median matches what entry-level graduates earn, suggesting limited growth trajectory without additional credentials or experience. Still, for students seeking a direct path into IT support or systems administration roles, this debt level leaves room to build experience while managing payments. The fact that earnings estimates align closely with national benchmarks indicates Ohio's IT job market compensates these roles fairly competitively.

For families weighing this option, the estimated numbers point to a functional trade-off: modest debt for solid, if not spectacular, entry into tech work. The lower-than-average debt makes this less risky than many alternatives, even if the ceiling isn't particularly high.