Veterinary/Animal Health Technologies/Technicians at Carrington College-San Jose

Carrington College-San Jose's vet tech program lands squarely in the middle of the pack—60th percentile among California programs and 52nd percentile nationally. With first-year earnings of $36,236 and manageable debt of $20,000, graduates face a debt burden they can realistically pay down in about three years. That's better than two-thirds of similar programs nationwide when it comes to debt load.

The modest 6% earnings growth over four years tells the real story here: vet tech salaries have a relatively low ceiling, regardless of where you train. Top programs in California like Stanbridge and Mt. San Antonio College only push graduates about $5,000 higher—meaningful but not transformative. Nearly half of Carrington's students receive Pell grants, suggesting the program serves students who need affordable career training rather than those chasing high-earning potential.

For a student passionate about animal care who understands they're choosing purpose over paycheck, this program works. The debt is reasonable, job placement appears solid, and you're getting typical vet tech outcomes without overpaying. Just make sure your child knows that $38,000 four years out represents the realistic ceiling for this career path, not a starting point before bigger earnings arrive.