Computer Software and Media Applications at DeVry University-Illinois

DeVry's software certificate delivers slightly above-average earnings for this credential type—$33,504 ranks at the 60th percentile among Illinois programs—but the debt load tells a more complicated story. While graduates carry nearly double the national median debt ($18,732 versus $10,180 nationwide), this program actually sits in the 5th percentile for debt among similar programs, meaning 95% of comparable certificates burden students with even more. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.56 suggests graduates could pay off their loans within two years of aggressive repayment, which is manageable for a credential that typically takes less time than a four-year degree.

The real question is opportunity cost. At $33,504 annually, these graduates earn roughly what many entry-level positions pay without credentials, though they're positioned slightly better than peers from most competing Illinois programs. The school serves a predominantly working-class population (65% receive Pell grants), and for students needing flexible scheduling or specific technical skills quickly, this path makes sense. However, students with the option to pursue a bachelor's degree in computer science or information technology would likely see stronger long-term earnings growth.

For students who need a credential fast and can't commit to a four-year program, this certificate provides a defensible entry point into tech work with debt that's actually below what most short-term programs charge. Just understand you're buying immediate employability, not a high-earning career trajectory.