Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Green River College

In Washington state, networking programs typically start graduates around $43,000—right where peer programs nationally suggest Green River's program lands. With estimated debt of roughly $16,000, this translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37, meaning graduates would owe about four and a half months of gross first-year income. That's notably below the national median debt of nearly $22,000 for this credential, though slightly above what other Washington programs typically produce.

The challenge with networking associate degrees is they prepare you for entry-level positions in a field where advancement often requires either specialized certifications or a bachelor's degree. Based on comparable programs, that $43,000 starting point could represent solid footing if your child plans to work while pursuing additional credentials, but it may feel limiting if they expect the associate degree alone to carry them long-term in tech. The lower debt burden compared to national peers gives more flexibility to pursue those next steps without crushing loan payments.

The practical question is whether this represents your child's entry point into IT or their terminal credential. If they're using it as a stepping stone—landing a help desk or junior admin role while earning certifications or completing a four-year degree—the estimated debt load makes that pathway feasible. If they're planning to stop here, understand that career growth will likely depend heavily on on-the-job learning and self-directed skill development in a rapidly evolving field.