Computer and Information Sciences at South Plains College

For an associate's degree in tech, carrying $12,750 in debt is notably lean—comparable programs in Texas typically see closer to $16,000, and the national median sits near $15,000. That lighter debt load matters when you're starting at an estimated $35,600 in first-year earnings, putting the debt-to-earnings ratio at 0.36, well within manageable territory. Similar programs in Texas produce this same earnings outcome, which tracks with the national median for computer science associate's degrees.

The earnings trajectory from year one to year four—from $35,600 to $37,400—shows modest but not dramatic growth. This is typical for associate's degree holders in tech, many of whom are filling support roles rather than developer positions. What's worth noting is that top-performing programs in Texas, like Austin Community College, see first-year earnings closer to $49,000, suggesting that location, internship pipelines, or curriculum differences create meaningful variation in outcomes. With 40% of South Plains students receiving Pell grants, the relatively low debt burden is particularly important for families watching every dollar.

The practical takeaway: this program offers a reasonably priced entry point into tech work without the crushing debt that can haunt larger investments. The earnings won't match four-year computer science degrees, but for a two-year credential with estimated debt under $13,000, graduates should be able to manage payments while building experience that could lead to certifications or further education.