Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Park University

Park University's networking program shows striking numbers that demand closer inspection: graduates earn $71,601 initially—outpacing 95% of similar programs nationally—while carrying just $15,000 in debt. That's less than three months of starting salary, an unusually favorable ratio. But there's an immediate red flag: these figures come from fewer than 30 graduates, making this more of an early signal than a reliable pattern.

The earnings trajectory adds complexity. While the program ranks at Missouri's median (though only five schools offer this degree statewide), graduates see income drop 7% by year four, falling to $66,862. That's unusual in tech fields, where skills typically compound in value. It could reflect the program's focus on certifications that lose currency quickly, or simply volatility in a small dataset. Either way, starting strong doesn't guarantee sustained growth here.

For families comfortable with uncertainty, the math works: even if earnings flatten at the four-year mark, graduates carry manageable debt and start well ahead of national peers. But banking on that $71,601 figure requires accepting that you're making decisions with limited evidence. If your student needs more predictable outcomes, larger programs with established track records might justify slightly higher debt loads.