Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Idaho State University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34 suggests networking graduates—based on comparable programs nationally—could manage their student debt relatively comfortably. With estimated first-year earnings around $60,540 and borrowing of $20,500, this program appears positioned in line with national norms for the field. The estimated debt sits notably below the national median of $27,000 for similar bachelor's programs, which provides some cushion even if actual outcomes vary from these peer-based projections.

The challenge here is context: as Idaho's only four-year networking program with available data, there's no local benchmark to gauge whether Idaho State is competitive within the state. National figures suggest this field produces consistent mid-range IT earnings, but without reported outcomes specific to ISU's program, you're evaluating based on what similar schools across the country achieve. The 27% Pell enrollment indicates the university serves students who may have fewer financial safety nets if the program underperforms expectations.

For families considering this investment, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value if your student is committed to network administration or infrastructure roles. However, recognize you're making this decision with limited visibility into how ISU's specific program performs. If possible, connect with recent graduates directly to understand actual job placement and starting salaries—that ground-level intelligence matters more than national averages when the program's real outcomes remain unknown.