Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at DeVry University-Virginia

DeVry's networking program in Virginia delivers earnings that beat the national average by $1,500 in the first year, but you're paying significantly more for that edge. At $32,882 in median debt—50% higher than the national norm for this degree—graduates face one of the steepest debt loads among networking programs nationwide. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.74 is manageable but not impressive, especially given that many comparable programs saddle students with half as much debt while producing similar outcomes.

The earnings trajectory offers some reassurance: graduates see their income grow 14% to $51,000 by year four, suggesting the degree provides skills that appreciate in the job market. Among Virginia's limited options for this program, DeVry sits at the 60th percentile—decent but not standout. With 42% of students receiving Pell grants, the program serves many families who can least afford to over-leverage.

The core question is whether slightly above-average earnings justify significantly above-average debt. For a student who needs the flexibility of DeVry's format or lacks other local options, this could work—the debt is heavy but not crushing. However, if your child has access to a community college offering a similar program at half the cost, that's likely the smarter financial play unless DeVry's career services or network connections demonstrably open more doors.