Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Rasmussen University-Illinois

Rasmussen University-Illinois graduates in this tech program earn slightly above the national median, landing at the 60th percentile among Illinois schools. While the $59,685 starting salary beats the national benchmark by about $1,600, the real concern is debt: at $47,579, it's nearly double what graduates at other programs in the state typically carry. This creates an 0.80 debt-to-earnings ratio that's workable but requires careful financial planning—graduates should expect to dedicate roughly eight to nine months of gross earnings to eliminating this debt.

The program does show positive momentum, with earnings climbing 17% to nearly $70,000 by year four. That growth trajectory is encouraging for a tech-focused degree, though it's worth noting that top Illinois programs like DePaul produce significantly higher earners ($79,863). The school serves a predominantly working-class population (63% Pell grant recipients), which may explain both the accessibility and the higher debt load compared to competitors.

For families weighing this option, the key question is whether the above-average debt load is acceptable given median earnings. If your child can minimize borrowing through scholarships, employer tuition assistance, or part-time attendance, the program becomes more attractive. But at full sticker price with maximum borrowing, consider whether in-state public universities might deliver similar outcomes with substantially less debt.