Computer Networking at Pima Community College

Tucson, AZ · Public · Associate Degree · Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications

serving 13,869 students in Tucson, AZ.

Program Analysis

Pima Community College's Computer Networking program produces graduates earning $35,786/yr — within striking distance of the $39,678 national average for this trade.

Every dollar of tuition returns an estimated 120.9x in decade earnings — an exceptional ratio that places this among the highest-ROI Computer Networking programs nationally.

The 39% gap between optimistic and pessimistic AI scenarios is notable. With 68% of typical tasks exposed to automation, AI adoption could meaningfully shift career outcomes for Computer Networking graduates.

Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $4,900 in median debt clears fast against $35,786 in annual earnings.

At #11 of 92 nationally, this is a top-5% Computer Networking program. Financial outcomes consistently outperform the vast majority of peers.

Five-year earnings of $55,139 show a 54% jump from the $35,786 starting point — strong upward trajectory suggesting real career acceleration in this trade.

Computer Networking has a registered apprenticeship option through It Project Manager with a median wage of $171,200/yr — worth exploring for students who prefer structured on-the-job training.

73 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
61
Low End
73
Score
76
High End
Earnings $35,786/yr (-10% vs median)
AI-Proof Exposed (32% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (258,000 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$610K
11.4% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
128.8x
10-year earnings ÷ tuition
Viable Career Paths
10 of 10
Occupations with strong AI resilience

Projected 10-Year Earnings

Based on actual graduate salary data and Bureau of Labor Statistics growth projections.

Program Tuition (In-State)
$4,740
Out-of-state: $15,372
Median Debt at Graduation
$4,900
1.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$55,139
54% growth from Year 1

Top Career Paths

Top career paths for Computer Networking graduates by median salary.

Career Path Median Salary Growth AI-ProofAI
Computer and information systems managers $171,200 +15.2% 47%
Computer and information research scientists $140,910 +19.7% 37%
Database architects $135,980 +8.7% 6%
Computer and information systems managers
$171,200
+15.2% growth 47% AI-proof
Computer and information research scientists
$140,910
+19.7% growth 37% AI-proof
Database architects
$135,980
+8.7% growth 6% AI-proof

View all 10 career paths with full salary data →

Computer Networking Career Guide

From day-one roles to senior positions, Computer Networking careers span a range of specializations. Read the complete outlook for graduates entering engineering & technology.

Read the full Computer Networking career guide →

Compare & Explore

Computer Networking Overview

Computer Networking at Other Schools

Other Majors at Pima Community College

Trade Certificate vs. Bachelor's Degree

Weigh shorter time-to-career against higher earning ceilings. The numbers tell the story.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Pima Community College's Computer Networking program score?
This program scores 73/100 — placing it among the stronger programs for Computer Networking nationally. The score reflects above-average earnings, hands-on AI resilience, and solid financial return.
Should I worry about AI if I study Computer Networking at Pima Community College?
The 68% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — Pima Community College graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
How affordable is Computer Networking at Pima Community College?
At $4,900 in median debt, Computer Networking graduates from Pima Community College carry minimal financial burden. The debt-to-income ratio of 0.1x is well below the trade program average.
Why does Pima Community College rank so high for Computer Networking?
The #11 ranking out of 92 programs is driven by strong financial outcomes — graduates earn well, debt is manageable, and the job market supports this trade.
Will Computer Networking graduates from Pima Community College find jobs?
The career paths mapped to Computer Networking have roughly 258,000 combined annual openings nationally, making this a very large job market. Demand is driven by ongoing digital transformation and technology adoption.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →