Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions at Northcentral Technical College

Northcentral Technical College's certificate program shows troubling long-term outcomes despite a modest start. While first-year earnings of $31,249 sit at Wisconsin's median for this field—actually placing in the 60th percentile statewide—graduates see their income drop to $23,769 by year four. That's a 24% decline at a time when most career trajectories move upward. This pattern suggests graduates may struggle to advance beyond entry-level positions or find stable employment in their field.

The $17,004 in median debt isn't catastrophic, representing about six months of first-year earnings. However, that calculation becomes less reassuring when fourth-year earnings barely cover the original debt amount. For context, this program performs below the national median of $32,312 but matches Wisconsin's state average, indicating this may reflect broader challenges in the field rather than issues specific to Northcentral.

The certificate may serve as a stepping stone into mental health services, but parents should understand their child will likely need additional credentials to build a sustainable career. The earnings trajectory suggests this isn't a terminal degree for most who want to stay in the field. If your child is committed to mental health work, consider whether this certificate is worth taking on debt for what appears to be temporary or transitional employment, or whether pursuing an associate's or bachelor's degree from the start makes more financial sense.