Ground Transportation at Tennessee College of Applied Technology-Memphis

Is the slightly higher debt load for this ground transportation certificate going to matter if it delivers solid earning potential? Based on comparable programs across Tennessee, graduates typically start around $39,000—right in line with the state median but falling short of the national benchmark by roughly $2,400. That puts this program squarely in the middle of Tennessee's offerings, though well behind what students earn at Chattanooga State or Miller-Motte.

The estimated $9,280 in debt runs about $1,400 higher than what's typical for ground transportation programs both statewide and nationally. Still, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.24 suggests manageable repayment—less than three months of gross income. For a certificate that can be completed relatively quickly, this represents a reasonable pathway to employment in Memphis's logistics and transportation sector, particularly for the 44% of students here receiving Pell grants who may have limited alternatives.

The key uncertainty is whether this specific program matches Tennessee's stronger performers or its weaker ones. Without actual outcome data from TCAT-Memphis, you're betting on peer program performance rather than this school's track record. If logistics work appeals and your child can complete the program with minimal additional borrowing, the numbers suggest a workable investment—just know you're making that decision with less visibility than you'd ideally want.