Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
In Texas, networking programs produce widely varying outcomes, and Tyler Junior College appears positioned near the middle of the pack. Comparable programs across the state suggest first-year earnings around $38,000—noticeably below the $47,000 that Austin Community College grads report and trailing several urban community colleges. By year four, earnings reach just over $40,000, which represents modest growth in a field where technical skills typically command faster wage progression.
The debt picture offers some reassurance. At an estimated $13,000, borrowing would be roughly half what's typical for Texas networking programs and well below the national median of nearly $22,000. This lighter debt load translates to a manageable 0.34 ratio—you'd be borrowing about four months of first-year salary, which most financial advisors consider reasonable territory. For a program serving 36% Pell-eligible students, keeping debt this low matters.
The practical question is whether Tyler's location limits career momentum. The stronger-earning programs cluster around Austin, Houston, and Dallas—metro areas with deeper IT job markets. If your student plans to stay in the Tyler area after graduation, research local tech employer presence carefully. If they're willing to relocate to a larger Texas city after completing this affordable credential, the debt-to-earnings math could work out favorably, even if initial wages lag behind urban peers.
Where Tyler Junior College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer systems networking and telecommunications associates's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tyler Junior College | — | $40,242 | — |
| Austin Community College District | $46,969 | $63,312 | +35% |
| Dallas College | $40,807 | $57,422 | +41% |
| DeVry University-Texas | $44,735 | $51,108 | +14% |
| Hallmark University | $31,847 | $47,836 | +50% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications associates's programs at peer institutions in Texas (23 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $3,112 | $38,255* | $40,242 | $13,164* | — | |
| $2,550 | $46,969* | $63,312 | $12,000* | 0.26 | |
| $17,488 | $44,735* | $51,108 | $32,882* | 0.74 | |
| $2,040 | $42,875* | — | $18,862* | 0.44 | |
| $2,370 | $40,807* | $57,422 | $13,164* | 0.32 | |
| $19,341 | $35,702* | $37,011 | $22,700* | 0.64 | |
| 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 Tyler Junior College, approximately 36% 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 median of 8 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.