Computer and Information Sciences at Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University's associate degree in Computer and Information Sciences commands higher debt than most programs—$22,164 versus a national median of $14,932—but the earnings justify the premium. Graduates start at $50,111, crushing the national median of $35,760 by 40%, and reach $65,335 after four years. That places this program in the 95th percentile nationally for earnings, meaning it outperforms nearly all similar associate programs across the country. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44 is strong: graduates earn more than twice their debt in their first year alone.

The state context tells an interesting story. Among New Hampshire's six schools offering this associate degree, SNHU sits exactly at the state median for both earnings and debt, landing at the 60th percentile. This suggests the entire state commands higher prices for tech education than the national average, but also delivers consistently higher returns. With nearly half of SNHU students receiving Pell grants and a 96% admission rate, this program provides accessible entry into tech careers without the usual gatekeeping.

For families willing to take on slightly more debt than typical for an associate degree, this program delivers exceptional returns. The combination of strong starting salaries and 30% earnings growth over four years makes the extra borrowing a calculated bet that the data strongly supports.