Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at DeVry University-Illinois

While DeVry University-Illinois produces graduates earning right at the national median for computer networking programs ($60,540), the concerning story here is debt. Students graduate owing $48,014—nearly double the national average of $27,000 for this field and significantly higher than Illinois' typical $36,382. This places DeVry in the worst 5% nationally for student debt burden, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.79 that will strain most graduates' budgets.

The Illinois comparison adds another layer of concern. Despite charging much more than competitors, DeVry ranks in just the 40th percentile among the state's five networking programs. Illinois State University graduates earn $6,000+ more annually while likely carrying less debt, making DeVry's value proposition questionable for in-state families.

The 10% earnings growth over four years provides some optimism, but it's modest given the field's typical trajectory. With 65% of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are price-sensitive, making the inflated debt load particularly problematic. For families considering this program, the combination of average outcomes with above-average costs suggests looking first at public alternatives or programs with stronger track records in Illinois before committing to DeVry's premium pricing.