Computer Programming at Camden County College

A debt load around $13,000 for a certificate program sounds manageable at first glance, but the earnings picture based on comparable programs nationally—around $44,000 in the first year—means you're looking at a 0.30 debt-to-earnings ratio. That's within reasonable territory, though it leaves little cushion if your child's actual outcomes fall below these peer-program estimates. The challenge here is visibility: with no reported data from Camden County's specific graduates or from other New Jersey programs, you're making this decision without knowing how this particular school's placement and outcomes compare to alternatives.

The national benchmark of $44,000 represents the median across hundreds of certificate programs, meaning half of graduates earn less. Programming certificates can lead to entry-level IT support or junior developer roles, but the field is increasingly credential-conscious. Many employers expect either a bachelor's degree or a certificate paired with demonstrable skills through portfolios or internships. With 39% of Camden County students receiving Pell grants, the school serves a population where even modest debt can strain finances if job placement doesn't go smoothly.

If your child is already working in tech and needs specific skills to advance, this certificate could make sense. But as a starting point into the field without work experience or a clear employer connection, the estimated numbers don't inspire confidence—especially when you're flying blind on this school's actual track record.