Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Great Bay Community College

In New Hampshire's competitive IT job market, this networking certificate faces a challenging reality: based on national peer programs, graduates can expect around $37,000 in first-year earnings while carrying roughly $15,000 in debt. That 0.40 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't terrible—you'd pay roughly 40 cents on every dollar earned toward debt—but it's higher than the $11,588 national median debt for similar programs. The question becomes whether an extra $3,000 in borrowing makes sense for a credential that, according to national data, produces fairly modest starting pay.

The practical concern here is velocity. Entry-level networking positions around $37,000 don't leave much room for aggressive debt repayment, especially in New Hampshire where housing costs can bite hard. If your child already has some IT experience or certifications, this program might help formalize their skills. But if they're starting from scratch, consider whether the debt load justifies what similar programs nationally suggest will be a slow financial start. Community college certificates should ideally minimize borrowing while maximizing immediate employability—this one does the latter better than the former.

Given the limited data available for Great Bay specifically, talk directly with their career services about job placement rates and whether local employers recruit from this program. The real value may depend heavily on regional connections rather than the credential itself.