Computer and Information Sciences, General at Pellissippi State Community College

Knoxville, TN · Public · Associate Degree

enrolling 6,391 students in Knoxville, TN.

Program Analysis

Pellissippi State Community College's Computer and Information Sciences, General graduates start at $44,224/yr — above the $38,485 national average, though not by a wide margin.

Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 59.6x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Computer and Information Sciences, General programs nationally.

Some AI exposure exists in Computer and Information Sciences, General's career paths, with 69% of job tasks potentially affected. The pessimistic scenario still projects solid returns, with a 17% gap from the optimistic case.

At #39 of 109 Computer and Information Sciences, General programs, Pellissippi State Community College scores above the median — competitive but not a standout.

Earnings grow from $44,224 to $54,069 over five years — a 22% increase that's moderate and in line with typical trade career progression.

There are 2 registered apprenticeship pathways mapped to Computer and Information Sciences, General, including Data Scientist (median $112,590/yr). Apprenticeships offer an alternative route that combines paid work with structured training.

74 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
64
Low End
74
Score
76
High End
Earnings $44,224/yr (15% vs median)
AI-Proof Exposed (31% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (338,800 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$560K
5.1% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
61.2x
10-year earnings ÷ tuition
Viable Career Paths
14 of 14
Occupations with strong AI resilience

Projected 10-Year Earnings

Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.

Program Tuition (In-State)
$9,152
Out-of-state: $35,552
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$54,069
22% growth from Year 1

Top Career Paths

Top career paths for Computer and Information Sciences, General 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%
Computer and information systems managers
$171,200
+15.2% growth 47% AI-proof
Computer and information research scientists
$140,910
+19.7% growth 37% AI-proof
Database architects
$135,980
+8.7% growth 6% AI-proof

View all 14 career paths with full salary data →

About Computer and Information Sciences, General Careers

Your career in tech often begins on a team, perhaps as a software developer using languages like Python to build new app features, or as an information security analyst monitoring networks for threats with tools like Splunk. Entry-level roles focus on specific tasks like fixing bugs or responding to security alerts under supervision. With a few years of experience, you’ll take on more complex challenges, designing systems and mentoring others. Many progress to senior specialist roles or into management, leading teams and setting strategy as a Computer and Information Systems Manager.

Read the full Computer and Information Sciences, General career guide →

Compare & Explore

Computer and Information Sciences, General Overview

Computer and Information Sciences, General at Other Schools

Other Majors at Pellissippi State Community College

Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree

Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 74/100 TradeSchoolOutlook Score mean for Computer and Information Sciences, General at Pellissippi State Community College?
This program scores 74/100 — placing it among the stronger programs for Computer and Information Sciences, General nationally. The score reflects above-average earnings, hands-on AI resilience, and solid financial return.
Will AI affect Computer and Information Sciences, General careers?
The 69% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Can I learn Computer and Information Sciences, General through an apprenticeship instead?
There are 2 registered apprenticeships connected to Computer and Information Sciences, General occupations. The earn-while-you-learn model means no tuition debt and immediate income, though the training period is typically longer.
Is there demand for Computer and Information Sciences, General workers?
The career paths mapped to Computer and Information Sciences, General have roughly 338,800 combined annual openings nationally, making this a very large job market. Trade careers in this field benefit from consistent replacement demand as workers retire.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →