Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Moorpark College
Undergraduate Certificate or Diploma
moorparkcollege.edu/index.shtmlAnalysis
California's networking programs show dramatically different outcomes, with this certificate estimating first-year earnings around $37,000—nearly triple what some in-state competitors report. Moorpark's estimated figures align with the national median for networking certificates, suggesting a program that could match typical outcomes elsewhere. However, these are projections based on peer programs nationally, not tracked results from Moorpark's own graduates, so there's inherent uncertainty about whether this specific certificate delivers those earnings.
The estimated debt load of roughly $15,000 creates a manageable 5-month payback period if earnings materialize as projected. That's reasonable for career training, though it's worth noting the national median debt for these programs runs about $3,000 lower. For a community college certificate—traditionally a lower-cost pathway—this feels on the higher end, possibly reflecting California's cost environment or program length.
The wide variance across California networking programs (from under $14,000 to over $36,000 in estimated earnings) makes school selection critical in this field. Without actual graduate outcomes from Moorpark, you're essentially betting this certificate performs more like national programs than the weaker California options. If your student can verify placement rates or talk to recent graduates, that would help validate whether the investment pencils out, particularly given the debt estimate.
Where Moorpark College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer systems networking and telecommunications certificate's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications certificate's programs at peer institutions in California (66 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1,416 | $36,915* | — | $14,699* | — | |
| — | $13,653* | $21,594 | $9,500* | 0.70 | |
| National Median | — | $36,915* | — | $11,588* | 0.31 |
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 Moorpark College, approximately 19% 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 25 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.