Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications at Wes Watkins Technology Center

This networking certificate comes with an estimated debt load of nearly $15,000—substantially higher than the national median of $11,588 for similar programs. That's a concern when comparable programs in Oklahoma typically see first-year earnings around $29,200, according to reported outcomes from peer institutions like Tulsa Technology Center. The earnings estimate for this program ($36,915) comes from national data, not Oklahoma outcomes, and in a field where geography matters for both job markets and living costs, that difference is significant.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40 suggests graduates would need to devote roughly five months of their first year's gross income just to cover what they borrowed—assuming they hit that national earnings mark rather than the lower Oklahoma average. For a sub-baccalaureate credential in IT support, where entry-level positions can be competitive and salary growth depends heavily on certifications and experience beyond the initial training, starting with above-average debt puts immediate pressure on career trajectory.

Before committing, compare this program's total cost against other Oklahoma tech centers offering networking credentials. The debt estimate here exceeds what similar schools typically see their graduates carry, which raises questions about whether this particular program's structure—its length, equipment fees, or delivery model—justifies the additional borrowing. If comparable training is available closer to that $11,600 national debt median, the financial advantage would be substantial for the same credential.