Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Herzing University-New Orleans

Herzing University-New Orleans graduates earn significantly more than typical Louisiana networking graduates—$43,901 versus the state median of $35,702. That's a meaningful advantage in a state where IT job markets tend to pay less than national averages. While the $30,649 in debt sits above what students typically borrow for associate's degrees in Louisiana, the program ranks at the 60th percentile statewide for earnings, meaning graduates are likely earning more than three out of five peers from similar programs across the state.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70 is manageable, especially given that earnings grow 14% to nearly $50,000 by year four. This upward trajectory matters for a field where certifications and experience drive salary increases. With 72% of students receiving Pell grants, this program appears to be serving working-class families who need technical credentials that translate to solid middle-class wages.

The practical question is whether the higher debt load justifies the earnings premium. Compared to community college alternatives that cost less, Herzing delivers about $8,000 more in first-year earnings—enough to offset the additional borrowing within a few years if graduates stay in IT roles. For Louisiana families, this represents a reasonable pathway into tech careers without requiring a bachelor's degree.