Fire Protection at Cabrillo College

Similar Fire Protection programs in California suggest first-year earnings around $48,500, making Cabrillo's estimated $47,000 slightly below the state median but competitive with programs like Santa Ana College. The estimated debt load of $9,557 is notably lower than California's typical $15,000 for this credential, which would give graduates here a meaningful advantage in their early career years.

The 0.20 debt-to-earnings ratio points to a manageable financial burden for those entering California's fire service sector. With comparable programs at Modesto Junior College producing higher earnings near $50,400, there's clearly variation across California community colleges in outcomes—possibly reflecting local fire department hiring patterns or supplemental certifications offered. Still, the fundamentals look reasonable: a sub-$10,000 debt load for entry into a public service career where earnings typically grow with tenure and rank advancement.

For parents, the key consideration is whether your child is committed to this specific career path. Fire protection credentials are vocational by nature, and the estimated numbers suggest solid value if your child completes the program and secures a position with a local fire department. The lower estimated debt compared to state peers is encouraging, though you'll want to verify what connections Cabrillo maintains with area fire services and whether graduates successfully place into full-time positions versus remaining in volunteer or part-time roles.