Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at The University of Montana

An estimated debt load of $17,500 positions this program favorably against the national median of $21,480 for similar IT management associate degrees. With projected first-year earnings around $41,752—derived from comparable programs nationwide—the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 suggests manageable repayment, though parents should recognize these figures reflect peer programs rather than Montana's actual graduate outcomes.

The challenge is context. Montana has only three schools offering this associate degree, and none report sufficient data to establish what IT management graduates actually earn in the state's smaller tech market. The national benchmark might overstate or understate local prospects depending on whether graduates stay in Montana or relocate to larger tech hubs. University of Montana's 96% admission rate and modest SAT scores suggest this program serves a broad student population, which could mean varied career outcomes.

The fundamentals look reasonable on paper—tech credentials typically offer practical value, and the estimated debt burden won't be crushing. But you're essentially betting on national patterns holding true for a program with too few graduates to track independently. If your child plans to stay in Montana, understand that tech salaries here trail national averages. If they're willing to relocate, these estimates become more credible. The safer path might be confirming whether Montana's other IT programs can provide actual earnings data, or considering whether a four-year degree opens more doors.