Analysis
Johnson College's Computer Systems Networking program appears positioned near the national median for this field, with peer programs nationally suggesting first-year earnings around $43,000. That's notably higher than Pennsylvania's state median of $37,100 for similar programs—though with only small sample sizes reported statewide, it's hard to gauge how representative that figure is. The estimated debt of $26,700 exceeds both the national and state medians for this credential, which could reflect Johnson's private-school tuition structure serving a student body where nearly half receive Pell grants.
The 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio based on comparable programs lands in workable territory if those earnings estimates hold true. A graduate making $43,000 yearly could manage $26,700 in loans, though it requires discipline—and hinges on actually securing work at that salary level right out of school. Pennsylvania's IT job market varies considerably by region; Scranton's proximity to larger markets matters here. The real test is whether Johnson's industry connections and hands-on training deliver outcomes that match or exceed what these peer-program estimates suggest.
Given the lack of school-specific data, talk directly with Johnson's career services about recent graduate placement rates and actual starting salaries in networking roles. Where graduates land their first jobs—and at what pay—will determine whether this investment pencils out better than the state figures suggest or falls short of the national benchmarks.
Where Johnson College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer systems networking and telecommunications associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications associates's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $20,733 | $43,276* | — | $26,675* | — | |
| — | $37,883* | $36,116 | $17,017* | 0.45 | |
| $5,215 | $36,340* | — | $11,309* | 0.31 | |
| National Median | — | $43,276* | — | $21,874* | 0.51 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer systems networking and telecommunications graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Computer Systems Analysts
Health Informatics Specialists
Computer Programmers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Johnson College, approximately 46% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 67 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.