Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Portland Community College

Four years out, graduates from comparable IT administration programs earn nearly $60,000—a solid middle-class wage in Portland's tech sector. But the path there starts modestly, with first-year earnings around $42,000 based on national patterns for associate programs in this field. That's typical for entry-level IT work, where certifications and on-the-job experience often matter as much as the degree itself.

The estimated debt burden of $17,500 is notably lower than the national median of $21,480 for similar programs, giving graduates room to breathe while building their careers. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42, students would theoretically pay less than half their first-year salary in total borrowing—manageable territory if that earnings trajectory to $60,000 holds. Community colleges often deliver this kind of value: lower cost, local connections, and practical training that translates directly to employment.

The caveat here is that we're working with estimates drawn from peer programs nationwide, not actual outcomes tracked from Portland Community College graduates specifically. The four-year earnings figure suggests the program delivers, but without first-year data from PCC itself, you're betting that this school's outcomes mirror national patterns. For a relatively modest investment in a field with clear hiring demand in Portland's economy, that's probably a reasonable bet—but confirm job placement rates and internship opportunities before committing.