Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Peninsula College

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28 signals manageable borrowing—nationally, similar IT administration certificates produce first-year earnings around $42,000 with median debt near $12,000. That's roughly three months of gross income to pay off the credential, which sits comfortably below concerning thresholds. Peninsula College serves a significant population of lower-income students (31% receive Pell grants), and for these families especially, understanding whether a certificate delivers value matters deeply.

The challenge here is uncertainty. With 24 schools offering this program in Washington but none reporting outcomes publicly, you're making decisions in an information vacuum. Comparable programs nationally suggest modest but livable starting pay, though the $48,000 ceiling at the 75th percentile hints that significant income growth may require additional credentials or specialized skills. IT administration roles exist throughout Washington's economy, but Port Angeles is relatively isolated—graduates may need geographic flexibility to maximize opportunities.

Given the estimated $12,000 debt load, this certificate could make sense as workforce retraining or a stepping stone to fuller employment, particularly if your child can work while completing it or has local job connections. But recognize you're betting on regional demand patterns without school-specific evidence. If your child is college-age without existing IT experience, investing similar time and money in a two-year associate degree—which typically offers more comprehensive training and clearer placement data—might prove a safer path.