Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians at Bergen Community College

Bergen Community College graduates veterinary technicians earning $41,150 their first year—impressive for this field nationally, but less remarkable in New Jersey's higher-cost context. While this program ranks in the 95th percentile nationally, it sits at the 60th percentile among New Jersey programs, meaning it's competitive but not exceptional for the state. The debt load of $21,000 matches the state median and creates a manageable 0.51 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates owe about half their first-year salary.

The real question for New Jersey families is whether veterinary technology provides enough earning power for the Garden State's cost of living. At $41,150, graduates earn roughly $2,000 more than Camden County College's program and about $5,000 above the national median—but this still represents a modest income for an area where studio apartments often exceed $1,500/month. The career trajectory matters here: vet tech salaries typically grow slowly, so families should view this as preparation for a passion-driven career rather than a path to financial comfort in New Jersey.

One important caveat: with fewer than 30 graduates in the sample, these numbers may not be reliable. That said, the debt picture looks reasonable, and for students committed to animal care who want to stay near home, this program delivers competitive outcomes without excessive borrowing. Just ensure your child understands they're choosing a calling over a paycheck.