Computer Networking at Madison Area Technical College

Madison, WI · Public · Associate Degree · Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications

enrolling 9,273 students in Madison, WI.

Program Analysis

First-year earnings of $65,324 put Madison Area Technical College's Computer Networking program 65% above the national median of $39,678 — one of the higher-earning programs in this field.

With a 71.5x return on tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 0% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Computer Networking career paths face changes, but the trade's physical demands provide a buffer.

At #7 of 92 programs, this Computer Networking program outperforms the majority of its peers. The top 10% ranking reflects consistently above-average outcomes.

One registered apprenticeship pathway (It Project Manager with a median wage of $171,200/yr) connects to Computer Networking careers, offering a paid training alternative to the classroom model.

77 /100
TradeSchoolOutlook Score
70
Low End
77
Score
80
High End
Earnings $65,324/yr (65% vs median)
AI-Proof Exposed (32% shielded)
Job Market Very Large (258,000 openings/yr)

Earnings Overview

Projected 10-Year Earnings
$686K
1.1% annual growth
Earnings Multiple (In-State)
71.8x
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)
$9,560
Out-of-state: $14,054

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

Explore what Computer Networking graduates do, from entry-level roles to long-term career paths across 92 programs nationwide.

Read the full Computer Networking career guide →

Compare & Explore

Computer Networking Overview

Computer Networking at Other Schools

Other Majors at Madison Area Technical College

Explore the Degree Alternative

Not sure if a trade program or four-year degree fits better? Compare both paths.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Madison Area Technical College's Computer Networking program score?
This program scores 77/100 — placing it among the stronger programs for Computer Networking nationally. The score reflects above-average earnings, hands-on AI resilience, and solid financial return.
Will AI affect Computer Networking careers?
Our scenarios model 68% of Computer Networking tasks as AI-exposed. That doesn't mean job loss — it means role evolution. Madison Area Technical College's 77/100 score weights this risk into the overall assessment.
Will Computer Networking graduates from Madison Area Technical College find jobs?
The very large job market (258,000 annual openings) works in favor of Computer Networking graduates. The national outlook is driven by ongoing digital transformation and technology adoption, though regional variation matters.
Data from College Scorecard, BLS, and AI resilience research. Methodology & sources →