Computer Programming at Cochise County Community College District

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.30 looks reasonable on paper, but the context here demands scrutiny. Based on similar certificate programs nationally, graduates might earn around $43,700 in their first year and carry roughly $13,300 in debt. That's well below what other Arizona programming programs produce—the state median sits at $60,500, nearly $17,000 higher. When University of Phoenix graduates are out-earning you by 40%, something's not adding up in your favor.

The challenge with short-term tech credentials is that outcomes vary wildly depending on curriculum depth, employer connections, and local job markets. Sierra Vista isn't Phoenix or Tucson, which may explain some of the gap, but it also means fewer opportunities to leverage that certificate into higher-paying roles. With 39% of students receiving Pell grants, this program serves economically vulnerable students who can least afford a credential that underperforms the state average by this much.

The debt level itself is manageable—you could pay off $13,300 on a $44,000 salary with discipline. But your child would be entering the workforce earning roughly what they could make in many entry-level roles without the credential, while their peers at other Arizona schools command significantly more. Unless there are compelling reasons to stay local or unique career pathways this program unlocks, the estimated earnings gap suggests looking at other options in the state.