Computer Programming at Owens Community College

Based on comparable programs across Ohio, Computer Programming graduates from community colleges typically start around $36,388 and see meaningful growth—this program's four-year earnings of $44,515 show a $8,000 jump that suggests decent advancement potential. The estimated debt of $20,729 creates a manageable 0.57 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly seven months of their first-year salary.

What's less clear is how Owens stacks up against its Ohio peers. Cincinnati State's graduates earn $55,996—more than 50% higher than the state median—showing that program quality varies dramatically even within community colleges. Without Owens' actual outcomes data, parents can't know whether this program delivers Ohio-average results or something closer to Cincinnati State's stronger performance. The $20,729 debt estimate sits above the national median of $17,108 for associate's programs in this field, which matters when earnings are average rather than exceptional.

The four-year earnings figure of $44,515 is one of the few actual data points here, and it suggests graduates do see income growth with experience. For families comfortable with the uncertainty around first-year outcomes and debt loads, the trajectory looks reasonable. But if you're weighing multiple Ohio programs, Cincinnati State's reported results provide the kind of concrete evidence that's missing here.