Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Lincoln Technical Institute-New Britain

Lincoln Technical Institute's networking program sits in an uncomfortable middle ground. With first-year earnings of $37,883 and debt of $17,017, the numbers look manageable on paper—graduates owe less than half their starting salary. But here's the catch: earnings actually drop to $36,116 by year four, and nationally, this program ranks in just the 28th percentile for graduate outcomes.

The Connecticut context tells a slightly better story. This program ranks in the 60th percentile statewide and matches the state median for earnings, though that comparison is limited since only two Connecticut schools offer this associate's degree. Importantly, graduates here carry about $5,000 less debt than the national median for networking programs, which matters given the modest salary trajectory.

The real concern is what happens after graduation. A 5% earnings decline over four years suggests either limited career advancement or possible credential issues in the local IT market. With 60% of students receiving Pell grants, many are taking on this debt with limited financial cushion. The small sample size (under 30 graduates) adds uncertainty—these numbers could shift significantly with just a few data points. For parents, this means their child might secure steady work quickly but shouldn't expect the typical IT career growth curve. The program works as an entry point to networking jobs, but it's not positioning graduates for the upward mobility that makes tech education compelling.