Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Waukesha County Technical College

Waukesha County Technical College's IT management program costs about $4,000 less than the national average for this credential while producing graduates who earn $4,700 more than typical. That 0.38 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than five months of their first-year salary—a manageable starting point for a technical career. With earnings at the 74th percentile nationally, this program outperforms three-quarters of similar associate's programs across the country.

Within Wisconsin, the picture is more competitive. Graduates here earn solidly in the middle of the pack (60th percentile), trailing programs like Madison Area Technical College by about $8,300. Still, they're outpacing the state median by over $4,000 while keeping debt slightly below Wisconsin's typical level. The moderate sample size suggests these numbers reflect real outcomes rather than outliers.

For a two-year credential, this represents efficient workforce preparation. Graduates are earning enough in year one to manage their debt comfortably while entering a field with room for growth. If your child can access Madison Area's program, that's worth exploring for the higher earnings. But Waukesha delivers solid returns without overloading students with debt—a practical choice for entering Wisconsin's IT sector.