Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Prince George's Community College

Prince George's Community College graduates from this IT program start at $44,587—above both the national and Maryland medians for similar associate degrees. That puts you roughly $2,000 ahead of the typical Maryland graduate in this field, a meaningful edge when you're starting your career. The debt load of $16,185 is also notably lower than what most students carry, resulting in a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 that suggests graduates can realistically pay off their loans within the first few years of work.

The catch here is sample size: fewer than 30 recent graduates means these numbers could shift considerably year to year. Still, the fundamentals look solid. You're paying less than the state average while earning slightly more, which is exactly what you want from a community college program. The earnings trail Strayer's graduates by about $17,000, but you're also likely avoiding significantly higher tuition costs and debt burdens that come with for-profit institutions.

For a Maryland family looking at IT training, this represents a practical path: manageable debt, above-average starting salary, and the flexibility to enter the workforce quickly or transfer credits if your child decides to pursue a bachelor's degree later. Just recognize that with limited data, you're placing some faith in the program's consistency.