Computer and Information Sciences at Seminole State College of Florida

Seminole State's computer science graduates start modestly but experience something relatively rare—strong, sustained earnings growth. Beginning at $51,316, graduates see their pay jump 38% to over $70,000 within four years, ultimately matching the national 75th percentile despite starting well below it. Combined with minimal debt ($19,391, significantly lower than both state and national medians), this creates an unusually favorable financial picture for a community college program.

The initial salary lags behind Florida's median by about $6,000 and sits in the 40th percentile statewide—graduates from UF and UCF start considerably higher. However, that gap closes dramatically over time. This trajectory suggests employers value the real-world experience graduates gain post-graduation, even if the degree itself doesn't command premium starting offers. For families concerned about debt, that sub-$20,000 burden means loan payments will be manageable even during those lower-earning early years.

For students who can tolerate a slower financial start, this represents solid value: low risk (minimal debt), moderate initial returns, and strong upside potential. The key question is whether your child has the patience and financial runway to work through those first few years while their peers from higher-ranked programs pull ahead initially. If they do, they're likely to catch up.