Computer and Information Sciences at Southeastern Community College

An associate's degree in tech typically costs less than half what you'd need to earn in your first year—that's the rough ratio of comfort. This program hits that mark with estimated debt of $12,500 against projected first-year earnings of $35,761, though there's an important caveat: these figures come from national peer programs, not Southeastern's actual graduates.

What's concerning is the gap between what similar programs produce nationally versus in Iowa. Des Moines Area Community College reports its computer science graduates earning $60,163—nearly $25,000 more than the national baseline this estimate is drawn from. That's a substantial difference that raises questions about whether Southeastern's program connects students to Iowa's better-paying tech opportunities or whether graduates end up competing for entry-level positions that don't leverage the state's stronger IT market.

The relatively low debt estimate is the bright spot here, especially compared to Iowa's typical $17,218 for this credential. But without knowing how Southeastern's actual outcomes compare to its in-state competitor, you're making a decision with significant blind spots. Before committing, dig into where this program's graduates actually work and what those employers typically pay—the $25,000 earnings gap between state and national figures isn't just noise.