Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at State Technical College of Missouri

State Technical College of Missouri's networking program lands squarely in the middle of the pack, with graduates earning about $41,270 initially—roughly $1,500 below both the national and Missouri medians. Among the 12 Missouri schools offering this associate degree, it ranks at the 40th percentile, meaning six in ten programs deliver stronger starting outcomes. The most appealing aspect here is the debt load: at $11,545, it's less than half the national median and about $3,000 below what typical Missouri students borrow for this degree. That 0.28 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly three months of salary, creating manageable monthly payments even on tech-sector entry wages.

The challenge is growth trajectory. While earnings do inch upward to $43,139 by year four, that modest 5% gain suggests graduates may be settling into stable but not rapidly advancing positions. Compare this to nearby Ozarks Technical Community College, where networking graduates start $3,000 higher right out of the gate. For families prioritizing minimal debt over maximum earning potential, this program delivers a functional credential without financial strain. But students with ambitions for IT leadership roles or specialized certifications should recognize they're starting a step behind Missouri's stronger programs—and they'll need proactive career moves to close that gap.