Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Ohio University-Zanesville Campus

Ohio University-Zanesville's networking program delivers solid returns with minimal debt burden. The $19,500 median debt sits well below both the national average ($27,000) and comes with strong first-year earnings of $61,788—that's a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.32, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under four months of gross income. Among Ohio networking programs, this ranks at the 60th percentile for earnings while maintaining notably lower debt than state peers.

The 12% earnings growth to $68,889 by year four suggests steady career progression in a field where hands-on networking skills remain in demand. What makes this program particularly compelling is the low financial risk: you're getting above-average national outcomes (75th percentile) without the debt load that typically accompanies tech degrees. The caveat here is important—the sample size is small, with fewer than 30 graduates tracked, so these numbers may not be fully representative.

For families concerned about college affordability, this program offers a rare combination: competitive tech sector earnings with community college-level debt. Just verify that this specific campus offers the networking specializations and industry connections your student needs, given Ohio University's multi-campus system.