Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Dickson

Based on comparable IT administration programs nationwide, this certificate puts graduates around $42,000 in first-year earnings—squarely at the national median for this credential. The estimated $12,000 debt load yields a manageable 0.28 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly three months of their first year's salary. That's a reasonable starting point for a technical certificate, particularly at a Tennessee College of Applied Technology where the focus is hands-on training rather than broad academics.

The challenge here is uncertainty. With 18 schools offering similar programs across Tennessee but none reporting actual outcomes data, parents have limited visibility into how TCAT-Dickson specifically prepares students compared to alternatives. The national figures suggest this type of certificate can lead to steady entry-level work in IT support or network administration, but they don't tell you whether this particular school's curriculum, employer connections, or job placement rates justify choosing it over other options in the state.

For families where $12,000 represents a manageable investment—especially given that 40% of students here receive Pell grants—this could work as a quick pathway to IT employment. But before committing, get specific answers from the school: What's the actual job placement rate? Which local employers hire graduates? What percentage complete the program? The estimated figures suggest decent value, but you'll want concrete evidence that TCAT-Dickson delivers on that promise.