Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Pace University

A $26,675 debt load for an associate's degree in IT networking raises immediate questions, especially when similar programs nationally typically carry about $22,000 in debt. Pace University's estimated figures—drawn from peer programs since this specific program has too few graduates to report—suggest first-year earnings around $43,300, which sits right at the national median. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 is manageable by technical standards, but you're paying a premium for Pace's brand compared to what other networking programs typically cost.

The challenge here is New York's competitive IT market. While similar programs in the state show median earnings near $44,700, that's only marginally better than the national average—meaning the geographic advantage of studying in New York doesn't translate to meaningfully higher pay in this field. For context, DeVry College of New York's networking graduates report that same $44,700 figure with debt that's documented rather than estimated. The extra $5,000 in estimated debt at Pace buys access to a university environment with a 1232 average SAT, but it's worth questioning whether that premium matters in a field where certifications and hands-on skills often outweigh institutional prestige.

Given the limited graduate data and the debt premium, push for concrete information: graduation rates for this specific program, job placement support, and whether Pace's career services can leverage New York industry connections. Without verified outcomes, you're betting on estimates that could swing either direction.