Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at University of Nebraska at Omaha

A debt load of $12,000 for a certificate program might sound reasonable—until you consider what similar IT credentials produce in first-year earnings. Peer programs nationally suggest around $42,000 in initial income, which would make the debt manageable at roughly 28% of first-year earnings. However, these estimates come from national patterns rather than UNO's specific outcomes, and IT certificate values can vary dramatically depending on whether the program targets entry-level help desk roles or more specialized technical positions.

The challenge with certificate programs in this field is their wide variability in career pathways. Some graduates use these credentials as stepping stones within existing careers or while completing bachelor's degrees, which would change the value proposition entirely. Others enter the job market directly, where first-year earnings in the low $40,000s represent a starting point that could climb quickly with experience—or stagnate if the skills aren't current or in-demand.

Before committing, pin down exactly what roles UNO's certificate prepares students for and what their actual graduates are earning. The estimated figures suggest a workable debt-to-earnings balance, but without knowing whether this program leads to network administration, IT management, or basic support roles, you're making a financial decision in the dark. Talk to the program directly about job placement specifics and consider whether the certificate aligns with your child's existing education or work experience.