IT & Networking Programs

The IT trade programs with the best career payoff focus on cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, network administration, and help desk support. Programs that prepare students for certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and Cisco CCNA have the highest employer recognition and the fastest path to employment.

Entry-level IT support specialists earn around $42,000–$55,000/year. Network administrators earn a median of $95,360. Cybersecurity analysts start at $60,000+ and experienced professionals earn $100,000–$150,000+. IT is one of the few fields where trade-length certifications can lead directly to six-figure salaries within a few years.

CompTIA A+ is the standard entry-level credential. CompTIA Network+ and Security+ are required or preferred by most employers. For cloud roles, AWS Certified Solutions Architect and Microsoft AZ-900/AZ-104 are highly valued. Cisco CCNA is the standard for networking careers. These credentials often substitute for four-year degrees in employer screening.

Increasingly, no. Google, IBM, Apple, and many major tech employers have dropped four-year degree requirements. Certifications and demonstrable skills (GitHub portfolios, home labs, capture-the-flag competitions) can get you hired. Trade programs that prepare you for CompTIA and vendor certifications are a direct path to IT employment.

The BLS projects 15% growth for information security analysts through 2033 and 3–5% growth for network support roles. The cybersecurity skills gap is acute: there are approximately 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity positions globally. Entry-level security roles command starting salaries well above median wages for most trades.