Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Rochester Institute of Technology

RIT's networking program launches graduates into notably higher starting salaries than most—$73,367 puts them in the 95th percentile nationally. But here's the crucial context for New York families: with only three schools offering this bachelor's program in the state, that "60th percentile" state ranking is somewhat misleading. You're essentially choosing between RIT and DeVry, and RIT graduates earn $13,000 more right out of the gate while carrying $8,500 less debt than the state median.

The trajectory looks strong, with earnings jumping 39% to over $102,000 by year four. That $31,000 debt burden translates to a manageable 0.42 ratio against first-year earnings—well below the 1.0 threshold where debt becomes burdensome. This means loan payments should consume roughly 4-5% of take-home pay in those early years, leaving plenty of room for living expenses in Rochester or wherever graduates land.

The major caveat: these numbers come from fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary significantly. RIT's solid reputation in tech fields (note that 1378 average SAT) suggests the small cohort reflects program size rather than quality concerns. For a student genuinely interested in networking infrastructure rather than broader computer science paths, the combination of specialized training and strong employer connections appears to justify the investment—just recognize you're betting on a smaller dataset than ideal.