Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Florida SouthWestern State College
Associate's Degree
fsw.eduAnalysis
Similar networking programs in Florida suggest first-year earnings around $37,680, but the trajectory here tells a more promising story. By year four, graduates earn $56,668—well above both the state median for this credential and what most peer programs report. That jump indicates real career progression in IT, where certifications and on-the-job experience often matter more than the initial degree.
The estimated $15,800 in debt is notably lower than what comparable programs typically produce. The state median for networking associates sits at $28,372, and the national benchmark is $21,874. A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 means the estimated loan burden equals roughly five months of that first-year salary—manageable territory for a technical field where credentials stack and salary growth is common.
The uncertainty here matters. Without actual graduate outcomes from this specific program, you're relying on how similar programs perform across Florida. If the program is small or new, those estimated figures may not capture its particular strengths or weaknesses. But the four-year earnings data is real and suggests graduates are finding traction in the IT job market. For a two-year degree in a region with growing tech infrastructure needs, the financial profile looks reasonable—just verify the program offers current industry certifications that employers actually want.
Where Florida SouthWestern State College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer systems networking and telecommunications associates's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida SouthWestern State College | — | $56,668 | — |
| DeVry University-Florida | $44,735 | $51,108 | +14% |
| Herzing University-Orlando | $43,901 | $49,816 | +13% |
| CBT Technology Institute-Main Campus | $37,680 | $43,610 | +16% |
| CBT Technology Institute-Cutler Bay | $37,680 | $43,610 | +16% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications associates's programs at peer institutions in Florida (20 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,401 | $37,680* | $56,668 | $15,832* | — | |
| $17,488 | $44,735* | $51,108 | $32,882* | 0.74 | |
| $13,420 | $43,901* | $49,816 | $30,649* | 0.70 | |
| $13,150 | $37,680* | $43,610 | $26,096* | 0.69 | |
| $13,150 | $37,680* | $43,610 | $26,096* | 0.69 | |
| $14,742 | $29,632* | — | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $43,276* | — | $21,874* | 0.51 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer systems networking and telecommunications graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Computer Systems Analysts
Health Informatics Specialists
Computer Programmers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
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 SouthWestern State College, approximately 34% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 5 similar programs in FL. Actual outcomes may vary.