Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Great Basin College

Similar networking programs nationally suggest this associate's degree could produce first-year earnings around $43,000—about on par with the national median for this field. The estimated debt of $15,832 yields a manageable ratio of 0.37, meaning graduates might expect to owe roughly 37% of their first year's salary. What's notable here is that this estimated debt figure sits well below both the national median ($21,874) and especially Nevada's median ($32,882), where the state's other programs tend to saddle students with significantly more borrowing.

The challenge is that with only three schools offering this program in Nevada and limited reported data, it's difficult to gauge how Great Basin College's specific outcomes compare to its in-state competitors. DeVry University-Nevada reports earnings at the state median of $44,735—slightly higher than these national estimates suggest—but we don't know their debt picture or how Great Basin's actual graduates fare.

For parents weighing this investment, the relatively modest estimated debt load is encouraging, particularly for an IT credential that can lead to stable employment. However, given that these are peer-program estimates rather than verified outcomes from Great Basin itself, you'll want to ask the school directly about job placement rates and whether their graduates are finding work in Nevada's more limited IT market or if they're leaving the state for opportunities.