Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at South Georgia Technical College
Associate's Degree
southgatech.eduAnalysis
For IT networking programs in Georgia, the financial picture typically looks stronger than what comparable programs nationally suggest for South Georgia Technical College. While peer programs across the country point to estimated first-year earnings around $43,300 and debt near $15,800, Georgia's median for this field runs about $1,000 higher in earnings but significantly higher in debt—over $31,000. This program appears positioned closer to the national borrowing pattern than the state's heavier debt loads, which matters considerably given that many students here receive Pell grants.
The estimated debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 falls well within manageable territory for a technical credential. Similar associate's programs in networking typically enable graduates to cover their education costs within their first year of work, and IT infrastructure roles often provide clear advancement paths as professionals gain certifications and experience. The challenge is that with suppressed data for this specific program, there's genuine uncertainty about whether graduates here match the state's slightly stronger earnings performance or fall closer to the national average.
Given the lack of program-specific outcomes, the safest assumption is that results align somewhere between the national baseline and Georgia's median—meaning likely solid but not exceptional returns. Parents should verify current job placement rates directly with the school and compare total program costs against the estimated debt, since technical colleges can vary widely in their actual borrowing requirements even when offering similar credentials.
Where South Georgia Technical College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer systems networking and telecommunications associates's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications associates's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,782 | $43,276* | — | $15,832* | — | |
| $17,488 | $44,735* | $51,108 | $32,882* | 0.74 | |
| $13,420 | $43,901* | $49,816 | $30,649* | 0.70 | |
| National Median | — | $43,276* | — | $21,874* | 0.51 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer systems networking and telecommunications graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Computer Systems Analysts
Health Informatics Specialists
Computer Programmers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At South Georgia Technical College, approximately 51% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 67 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.