Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at GateWay Community College

This undergraduate certificate in IT administration carries an estimated $12,000 in debt—a modest burden that represents just 28% of expected first-year earnings around $42,000. That ratio suggests manageable repayment even at the entry level, though it's worth noting these figures come from peer programs nationally rather than GateWay's specific outcomes.

The picture gets more complex when you look at Arizona comparisons. Similar programs in the state, like University of Phoenix's offering, report median earnings near $50,000—roughly $8,000 higher than what national benchmarks suggest for this certificate. Whether GateWay's program performs closer to state or national norms matters significantly for return on investment, particularly since a community college certificate should position students competitively for local IT support and administration roles.

For an anxious parent, the reasonable debt load is encouraging, but the lack of school-specific data means you're investing without knowing if this particular program connects effectively to Arizona's tech employers. Before committing, press the school on job placement rates and whether their graduates are landing the $50,000+ positions common in the Phoenix market, or settling for lower-tier roles. The affordability gives you room to take the risk, but only if there's evidence GateWay's network and curriculum deliver outcomes matching Arizona's stronger-performing programs.