Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Strayer University-New Jersey

Strayer University-New Jersey graduates from this IT management program earn $61,810 in their first year—nearly $11,000 above the state median and $20,000 above the national average for associate's degree holders in this field. That 95th percentile national ranking looks impressive on paper, but here's the complication: within New Jersey, this program sits closer to the middle of the pack at the 60th percentile. You're paying slightly above the state median debt ($28,174) for earnings that, while strong, aren't exceptional compared to other New Jersey IT programs.

The more troubling pattern is the earnings decline. Graduates see their income drop 7% by year four to $57,214. This isn't catastrophic—the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 remains manageable—but it suggests these graduates may be hitting a ceiling faster than expected in IT roles. With two-thirds of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are stretching to afford this program, and that earnings trajectory means less financial cushion over time.

For a family considering this investment, the question is whether the strong starting salary justifies the moderate debt load given the income plateau. If your child can secure one of those $61,000+ starting positions and avoid lifestyle inflation, they can pay down the debt relatively quickly. But don't expect earnings to keep climbing the way they might at other schools—what you see initially is likely what you'll get.