Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Cerro Coso Community College

Based on comparable networking programs nationally, this associate's degree appears positioned to deliver modest returns with manageable debt. The estimated $43,276 first-year earnings sit right at the national median for this credential, while the projected $15,832 debt load comes in well below both national and California averages—nearly half the state's typical $32,882. That 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests graduates would dedicate roughly four months of first-year salary to debt repayment, a reasonable starting point for an entry-level IT credential.

The challenge is that California's networking field typically produces higher earnings than the national average ($44,735 versus $43,276), and these estimates don't tell us whether Cerro Coso's program connects students to those better-paying opportunities. Community colleges often serve as affordable pathways into IT careers, but success depends heavily on whether curriculum aligns with local employer needs and whether students can leverage the credential into roles beyond basic help desk positions. The relatively low Pell grant rate (14%) is unusual for a community college, which may indicate a different student profile than typical.

For parents weighing this investment, the estimated figures suggest acceptable risk if your student has clear interest in networking and a plan to pursue industry certifications alongside the degree. The lower debt load provides breathing room, but verify that the program offers current training in areas like cloud infrastructure and cybersecurity—skills that command higher salaries in California's competitive tech market.