Analysis
A $12,750 estimated debt load paired with first-year earnings around $35,600—based on what similar Texas community college computer science programs typically produce—creates a manageable starting point for technical careers. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 sits comfortably below problematic thresholds, meaning graduates would likely dedicate less than a third of their first year's salary to loan repayment.
What's worth noting is how Paris Junior College's estimated outcomes align almost perfectly with the Texas median for associate's degrees in this field. Peer programs across the state show a wide range—from Austin Community College's graduates earning nearly $50,000 to others in the mid-$30,000s. This suggests local labor markets and specific program focus matter significantly. The national benchmarks tell a similar story, with the median sitting at $35,760 but top-quartile programs reaching above $41,000.
For parents evaluating this investment, the math works if your student plans to enter the workforce immediately or use this credential as a stepping stone. The modest debt combined with steady first-year earnings creates flexibility—whether that means starting a career in IT support, database administration, or transferring credits toward a bachelor's degree. The key uncertainty lies in where Paris Junior College's actual outcomes fall within that broad Texas range, since these figures reflect statewide patterns rather than this campus specifically.
Where Paris Junior College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Computer and Information Sciences associates's programs at peer institutions in Texas (52 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $2,580 | $35,577* | — | $12,750* | — | |
| $2,550 | $49,032* | $59,166 | $13,000* | 0.27 | |
| $3,090 | $39,224* | $51,631 | $12,500* | 0.32 | |
| — | $35,577* | $37,217 | $25,032* | 0.70 | |
| — | $35,577* | $37,217 | $25,032* | 0.70 | |
| — | $33,899* | $33,884 | $18,391* | 0.54 | |
| National Median | — | $35,760* | — | $14,932* | 0.42 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer and information sciences graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
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 Paris Junior College, approximately 23% 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 7 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.