Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Walla Walla Community College

When estimates from comparable programs across the country suggest first-year earnings around $42,000 and likely debt of $17,500, the resulting debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 falls comfortably within manageable territory—about half what graduates earn in their first year. That's a reasonable starting point for an IT career, though these figures come from peer programs nationally and within Washington rather than tracked outcomes from Walla Walla Community College specifically.

The challenge is that similar programs in Washington show considerable variation in outcomes. While some community colleges report graduates earning in the low-$40,000s, the state median sits slightly lower at around $40,000. IT administration roles can lead to solid middle-class careers, but much depends on whether graduates land help desk positions or move into more specialized technical roles—and two-year IT programs don't always guarantee the latter immediately.

For families evaluating this investment, the estimated debt level is modest enough that even at the lower end of typical IT starting salaries, repayment shouldn't overwhelm a graduate's budget. The real question is whether this associate's degree provides enough technical depth and credentials to compete for positions that justify the investment, or whether your student might need additional certifications or a bachelor's degree to reach their career goals. Given the limited data available for this specific program, talking to current students and recent graduates about their job placement experiences would be particularly valuable.