Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Waukesha County Technical College

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.26 suggests this certificate could be finished with manageable financial burden—if the estimates hold. Based on peer programs in Wisconsin, graduates might expect around $11,000 in debt against first-year earnings of $42,000, which puts this roughly in line with the national median for IT administration certificates. That's a workable starting point for someone entering the tech field, though not exceptional.

What's harder to assess is how Waukesha County Technical College's specific program compares to nearby alternatives. Gateway Technical College's comparable program shows lower earnings ($36,000), while Northcentral Technical College matches the national median. Without actual data from WCTC graduates, it's unclear where this program falls in that range. The low Pell grant percentage (11%) might indicate a more affluent student body, but it doesn't tell us much about the program's direct value or employer connections in the Milwaukee metro area.

For parents, the key question is whether this certificate serves as a quick entry point to IT work or a stepping stone to further education. At an estimated cost of roughly $11,000, it's a relatively low-stakes credential—but you're betting on estimated outcomes derived from other schools. Visit WCTC's career services office to ask about actual job placement rates and starting salaries for recent certificate holders before committing.