Median Earnings (1yr)
$23,458
75th percentile (60th in FL)
Median Debt
$10,813
At national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.46
Manageable
Sample Size
359
Adequate data

Analysis

This computer engineering technology certificate from Florida Career College-Margate stands out as an unexpectedly solid choice in a field where many programs saddle students with heavy debt loads. At just $10,813 in median debt—ranking in the 5th percentile nationally—graduates enter the workforce with minimal financial burden while earning $23,458 in their first year, which places the program at the 75th percentile nationally for similar credentials.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 means graduates typically owe less than half their first year's salary, a manageable burden that allows for financial flexibility early in their careers. Within Florida's competitive market for this program, earnings hit the 60th percentile among 22 similar offerings, demonstrating respectable performance against in-state alternatives. The 15% earnings growth over four years to $26,890 suggests graduates build valuable skills that translate to career advancement.

For families concerned about education costs—particularly relevant given that 69% of students here receive Pell grants—this program offers a practical pathway into tech without the crushing debt that often accompanies career training. The combination of low debt and solid earnings makes this certificate a financially sound investment for students seeking quick entry into computer technology fields.

Where Florida Career College-Margate Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering technologies/technicians certificate's programs nationally

Florida Career College-MargateOther computer engineering technologies/technicians programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Florida Career College-Margate graduates compare to all programs nationally

Florida Career College-Margate graduates earn $23k, placing them in the 75th percentile of all computer engineering technologies/technicians certificate programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Florida

Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians certificate's programs at peer institutions in Florida (22 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Florida Career College-Margate$23,458$26,890$10,8130.46
Florida Career College-Orlando$23,458$26,890$10,8130.46
Florida Career College-Miami$23,458$26,890$10,8130.46
Florida Career College-Pembroke Pines$23,458$26,890$10,8130.46
Florida Career College-West Palm Beach$23,458$26,890$10,8130.46
Florida Career College-Hialeah$23,458$26,890$10,8130.46
National Median$23,458—$10,8130.46

Other Computer Engineering Technologies/Technicians Programs in Florida

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Florida schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Florida Career College-Orlando
Orlando
—$23,458$10,813
Florida Career College-Miami
Miami
—$23,458$10,813
Florida Career College-Pembroke Pines
Pembroke Pines
—$23,458$10,813
Florida Career College-West Palm Beach
West Palm Beach
—$23,458$10,813
Florida Career College-Hialeah
Hialeah
—$23,458$10,813

About This Data

Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)

Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Florida Career College-Margate, approximately 69% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.

Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.

Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.