Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at NUC University

NUC University's networking program costs nearly a year's salary in debt but lands students in the bottom 5% nationally for earnings—barely over $32,000 initially. The only silver lining: among Puerto Rico's 11 schools offering this program, it ranks around 60th percentile, meaning it outperforms most local alternatives despite the modest absolute earnings. Still, graduates earn roughly half what their mainland counterparts make, and those earnings actually slip slightly over the first four years.

The debt load of $23,500 is manageable on its own, but when paired with earnings that don't grow—and actually decline 2%—it creates a tight financial situation. For comparison, the typical networking graduate nationwide earns $60,540, making this program's outcomes dramatically lower. The 71% Pell grant rate shows this primarily serves students from lower-income families, who may have fewer safety nets if those modest earnings don't improve.

If staying in Puerto Rico is the plan, this program performs reasonably well compared to local competitors. But families should understand they're choosing the best available option in a limited market, not a program that delivers strong outcomes by national standards. The stagnant earnings trajectory suggests limited career advancement potential, which matters more than the initial salary when planning a financial future.