Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Las Positas College

Peer programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $37,000 for this networking certificate, with estimated debt of roughly $15,000—a 0.40 debt-to-earnings ratio that looks manageable on paper. However, California's own data tells a starkly different story: the state median for comparable programs sits at just $13,653, less than half the national figure. That gap matters enormously when you're deciding whether this investment makes sense in California's competitive tech market.

The discrepancy likely reflects regional variations in how networking certificates translate to employment. While some states see these credentials lead to solid IT support roles, California's tech employers may demand bachelor's degrees or prioritize different certifications. Las Positas College sits in the Bay Area's eastern edge, where living costs are high but tech salaries typically favor four-year degree holders. If your child ends up closer to California's typical outcomes than the national estimate, that $15,000 in debt becomes a much heavier burden against $13,000 annual earnings.

Before committing, investigate what specific certifications this program includes (CompTIA, Cisco credentials matter more than the certificate itself) and whether Las Positas has strong employer partnerships that lead to actual placement. The wide gap between California and national outcomes means you need concrete evidence this particular program connects students to employers willing to pay closer to that $37,000 figure—otherwise, you're betting against the state's track record.