Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Johnston Community College

Compared to other technical associate's degrees, networking programs typically command solid starting salaries—and the estimated $43,276 first-year earnings here aligns with what similar programs produce nationally. That's enough to make the estimated $15,832 debt load manageable, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37. For context, many two-year programs leave students with debt exceeding half their first-year salary, so this represents a relatively conservative borrowing level for the income potential.

What makes networking attractive as a community college pathway is the combination of hands-on skills training and immediate job market relevance. North Carolina's Research Triangle and Charlotte tech sectors create steady demand for network administrators and support specialists. Based on comparable programs nationally, graduates often find work in healthcare systems, financial services, or managed IT providers—sectors that value certifications and practical experience over four-year credentials.

The caveat: these figures come from peer programs since Johnston's graduate cohort was too small for the DOE to publish actual outcomes. That means your child's results could vary based on the specific curriculum, local employer connections, and how aggressively they pursue industry certifications (CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA) that often matter as much as the degree itself. If your student is committed to IT work and wants to avoid the debt of a bachelor's program, this estimated profile suggests a workable starting point—just verify the program's current certification offerings and job placement support before enrolling.