Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Century College

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40 based on peer networking programs nationally suggests this certificate could work financially—you'd be looking at roughly $15,000 in borrowing against first-year earnings near $37,000. That's manageable if the credential actually delivers access to IT roles, but here's the complication: with 15 schools offering similar programs across Minnesota and no reported outcome data from any of them, you're essentially flying blind on whether these certificates translate to networking jobs or just help-desk positions with lower ceilings.

The national benchmark of $36,915 for first-year earnings in these programs sits well below what four-year IT degrees command, which makes sense for a certificate—but only if it's genuinely a faster path to employment rather than a stepping stone that still requires additional credentials. The $15,000 debt estimate comes from similar community college programs nationwide, and at that level, you're not betting the farm. Still, without actual graduate outcomes from Century or its Minnesota competitors, you can't verify whether completers are landing the Cisco-certified technician roles these programs aim for or struggling to differentiate themselves in an IT job market that increasingly expects bachelor's degrees.

Given the uncertainty, treat this as a low-cost experiment only if your child can complete it quickly without displacing work income, and have a backup plan if the certificate alone doesn't open doors. The financials could work, but you need evidence this specific program has employer relationships that matter.