Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at University of Phoenix-Nevada

University of Phoenix-Nevada's networking program starts strong with first-year earnings of $65,474—beating both the national median and Nevada's average for this degree. However, that promising start reverses: by year four, graduates see earnings drop to $60,322, a decline that's unusual in tech fields where experience typically commands higher pay. Among Nevada's two programs offering this degree, this ranks at the 60th percentile, just edging out DeVry but not by much.

The $39,645 debt load sits above the national median but slightly below Nevada's typical debt for this program. The 0.61 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable if those initial earnings hold, but the backward trajectory raises questions about whether graduates are finding stable roles that advance their careers. In networking and telecommunications, professionals usually see steady salary growth—this earnings decline suggests graduates might be cycling through contract work or facing challenges in competitive Las Vegas tech market.

For parents, this is a calculated risk. Your child would graduate earning more than most networking degree holders nationwide, but you need to understand why earnings slide rather than climb. At this price point, investigate whether graduates are landing permanent positions with growth potential or getting stuck in roles that don't build toward higher-paying opportunities. If career services can't explain the earnings pattern convincingly, consider whether in-state alternatives or community college pathways might offer better odds of upward mobility.