Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Fort Hays State University-Northwest Kansas Technical College

Networking certificate programs in Kansas cluster around $35,000 in first-year earnings, and this Fort Hays State program appears to track right along that trajectory. What matters more here is the debt picture: while comparable programs nationally carry a median of roughly $11,600 in loans, Kansas programs typically run higher at around $18,250. The estimated $14,700 for this program falls between those benchmarks, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40—manageable territory where graduates could reasonably pay down loans within a few years.

The challenge with this certificate is less about the numbers and more about the credential itself. Networking roles increasingly favor bachelor's degree holders or candidates with stackable credentials and certifications (Cisco, CompTIA). A standalone certificate might open doors to help desk or junior network support positions at that $36,000-$37,000 range, but advancement often requires additional education or industry certifications. In rural Kansas, where Fort Hays State operates, opportunities may be more limited than in Wichita or Kansas City metro areas.

The practical takeaway: this program offers reasonable debt relative to likely starting pay, but parents should verify whether this certificate alone positions graduates competitively in their target job market, or whether it's designed as a stepping stone toward further credentials. The value depends heavily on what comes next after graduation.