Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 suggests relatively manageable repayment for an associate degree in computer science, though the numbers merit scrutiny. Based on comparable programs nationally, first-year earnings around $39,000 would put monthly loan payments at roughly $140—about 4% of gross monthly income. That's well within the standard affordability threshold, and an associate degree completed in two years limits both debt accumulation and opportunity cost compared to a four-year path.
The challenge is that we're working with national estimates here because Owens' graduate cohort was too small for the Department of Education to report actual outcomes. Similar two-year computer science programs across the country produce these figures, but local Ohio tech job markets and Owens' specific employer connections could shift results considerably. The Toledo metro area's mix of manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics creates some tech demand, though it's not a major tech hub. Whether Owens' curriculum aligns with regional employer needs—and whether graduates stay local or relocate—will significantly impact actual outcomes.
The baseline math works if the estimates hold true: you'd be borrowing about four months of projected salary for a credential that opens doors to IT support, help desk, and junior developer roles. But given the uncertainty around these specific figures, investigate Owens' job placement rates, talk to recent graduates if possible, and understand whether this associate degree serves as an endpoint or a stepping stone to a bachelor's program.
Where Owens Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Computer Science associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,750 | $39,118* | — | $12,458* | — | |
| $6,391 | $79,044* | $83,812 | $15,254* | 0.19 | |
| $5,703 | $48,889* | $81,847 | $13,000* | 0.27 | |
| $8,280 | $47,904* | — | $22,519* | 0.47 | |
| $5,520 | $30,332* | — | $9,000* | 0.30 | |
| $5,218 | $24,888* | $46,054 | $8,750* | 0.35 | |
| National Median | — | $39,118* | — | $12,458* | 0.32 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
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 Owens Community College, approximately 22% 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 national median of 6 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.