Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Cascadia College

Washington's tech industry drives demand for networking professionals, but peer programs across the state suggest this associate degree produces modest first-year earnings around $43,000—enough to make the estimated $15,832 in debt manageable, but not the immediate financial windfall some families might expect from any tech-related credential. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 is reasonable, though it's worth noting that similar programs in Washington typically carry lower debt loads (around $10,700 statewide), raising questions about what drives costs higher at this particular institution.

The challenge with networking associate degrees is timing—these credentials can open doors to entry-level IT support roles, but many graduates find they need additional certifications or experience to reach the more lucrative positions that justify the investment. Based on comparable programs nationally, graduates typically start in the low-to-mid $40,000 range regardless of their geographic location, which means Washington's higher cost of living won't necessarily translate to proportionally higher pay for this specific credential level.

For families weighing this program, the key question is whether the estimated debt load makes sense given that first-year earnings hover right at the national median. If your student can minimize borrowing through community college pricing or needs this credential as a stepping stone while working in tech, the numbers work. But if they're taking on the full estimated debt without a clear path to employer-sponsored advancement, they should compare this closely against Washington's lower-debt alternatives in the same field.