Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 represents one of the better financial profiles among community college programs, suggesting manageable debt relative to income potential. Based on national data from similar associate-level computer science programs, graduates typically start around $39,000—roughly three times their estimated debt load. That's a reasonable foundation, though it's worth noting this program sits at the national median rather than pushing toward the higher end where some comparable programs reach nearly $49,000.
California's tech sector creates advantages that national figures alone can't capture. While we lack specific data on Solano's outcomes or other California programs, the state's concentration of technology employers typically lifts computer science wages above national averages. An associate degree functions as either a direct entry point to support roles or—commonly in this field—as a stepping stone toward a bachelor's, where earnings jump significantly.
The question is whether this particular pathway maximizes those opportunities. With 80 programs statewide and limited visibility into Solano's specific graduate outcomes, your clearest next step is comparing transfer rates and industry partnerships. If most graduates continue to four-year programs, this debt load positions them well. If they enter the workforce directly, understanding local employer connections matters more than national benchmarks ever could.
Where Solano Community College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Computer Science associates's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1,172 | $39,118* | — | $12,458* | — | |
| $6,391 | $79,044* | $83,812 | $15,254* | 0.19 | |
| $5,703 | $48,889* | $81,847 | $13,000* | 0.27 | |
| $8,280 | $47,904* | — | $22,519* | 0.47 | |
| $5,520 | $30,332* | — | $9,000* | 0.30 | |
| $5,218 | $24,888* | $46,054 | $8,750* | 0.35 | |
| National Median | — | $39,118* | — | $12,458* | 0.32 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
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 Solano Community College, approximately 21% 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 national median of 6 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.