Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at New Mexico State University-Main Campus

Peer programs in networking and telecommunications typically produce first-year earnings around $43,000—a solid starting point for an associate degree, though it won't quickly erase a debt load. At an estimated $15,832, the borrowing here appears manageable compared to the national median of nearly $22,000 for similar programs, giving graduates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37. That's well within conventional affordability thresholds and suggests students could realistically tackle payments within a few years.

The challenge is that New Mexico State is the only institution in the state offering this associate degree, which means there's no local benchmark to measure against. Nationally, similar programs show consistent but modest earnings—the 75th percentile sits just above $44,700, indicating a relatively narrow earnings band regardless of where students graduate. For a field that demands constant skill updates and certifications, this program appears positioned as an entry point rather than a destination credential.

For parents weighing this investment, the estimated debt burden looks reasonable relative to typical outcomes in this field, but the earnings ceiling appears low. If your student plans to stack credentials—moving toward a bachelor's degree or industry certifications—this could serve as an affordable foundation. As a standalone credential with no in-state alternatives for comparison, it's harder to assess whether NMSU's specific program will match these national patterns.