Computer Software and Media Applications at Portland Community College
serving 18,365 students in Portland, OR.
Program Analysis
At $37,572 per year, Computer Software and Media Applications graduates from Portland Community College earn slightly above the $31,879 national median. The premium is real but not dramatic.
The 50.9x earnings multiple means ten-year projected earnings exceed tuition cost by an order of magnitude. Trade programs often deliver strong ratios, and this one is a standout.
AI risk is moderate — 70% task exposure — and the 27% scenario spread suggests disruption would dent but not destroy the earnings outlook for Computer Software and Media Applications graduates.
Ranked #4 out of 24 programs, Portland Community College's Computer Software and Media Applications program lands in the top 5% — a strong signal of graduate success.
The five-year earnings trajectory from $37,572 to $50,936 shows 36% growth, reflecting steady but unremarkable salary progression.
Computer Software and Media Applications connects to 3 apprenticeship options. The earn-while-you-learn model can be a strong alternative or complement to a certificate program.
Earnings Overview
Projected 10-Year Earnings
Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.
Top Career Paths
Top career paths for Computer Software and Media Applications graduates by median salary.
| Career Path | Median Salary | Growth | AI-ProofAI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and information systems managers | $171,200 | +15.2% | 47% |
| Computer and information research scientists | $140,910 | +19.7% | 37% |
| Database architects | $135,980 | +8.7% | 6% |
About Computer Software and Media Applications Careers
Your career could begin as a software developer, where you’ll spend your days in a code editor like VS Code, writing Python or JavaScript and collaborating with a team to build and debug applications. Alternatively, you could focus on user experience as a web and digital interface designer, using tools like Figma to create wireframes and test how people interact with your layouts.
Read the full Computer Software and Media Applications career guide →
Compare & Explore
Computer Software and Media Applications Overview
Computer Software and Media Applications at Other Schools
Other Majors at Portland Community College
How Does a Bachelor's Degree Compare?
Four-year programs take longer but may unlock different career trajectories. See the data.