Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Community College of Vermont

Peer programs across the country suggest this networking degree leads to first-year earnings around $43,000—solid ground for an associate's credential, though perhaps not the tech windfall some families anticipate. The estimated debt load of roughly $16,000 creates a manageable 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would theoretically dedicate about four months of gross income to loan repayment. That's considerably better than the national median debt for this field, which sits closer to $22,000.

The challenge is that Community College of Vermont is the only school in the state offering this specific program, leaving families without local alternatives for comparison. Networking and telecommunications roles exist in Vermont's economy—healthcare systems, state agencies, and distributed tech companies all need this expertise—but the small job market means your child's career trajectory will depend heavily on what they do beyond the credential itself. Certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Cisco's CCNA often matter as much as the degree in this field.

Given the limited data, treat this as a foundation rather than a complete career package. The debt burden appears reasonable based on what similar programs produce nationally, but confirm your child has a specific pathway in mind—whether that's continuing toward a bachelor's degree or entering the workforce with industry certifications already in hand.