Compare 7 Computer Hardware Technology/Technician. programs in the Northeast. Average earnings: $67,120.
Computer Hardware Technology/Technician programs produce graduates earning between $40,485 and $119,498—a $79K spread that demonstrates why program selection matters independently of school prestige. Across 7 ranked programs in the Northeast, outcomes vary dramatically based on program quality, not institutional reputation.
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's Computer Hardware Technology/Technician program leads with graduates earning $119,498—far above the $67,120 regional average. Wentworth Institute of Technology follows at $71,826, while Rochester Institute of Technology delivers $64,990. The variation shows technical programs reward program-level excellence over school brand.
High earnings don't tell the whole story—debt burden matters. Rensselaer graduates borrow $23,750 and face just a 3.4% payment burden, landing in the 'Excellent' category. For families considering parent loans, CUNY New York City College of Technology leads with a 7.6% family burden—proof that the best choice depends on who's paying.
Highest program earnings: $119,498
Strong outcomes ($119,498) with 58% acceptance
3.4% payment burden | Excellent
7.6% family burden | Excellent
| Rank | School | Program Earnings | Cohort Size | Student Debt | Student GPS | Parent Debt | Parent GPS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | $119,498 | 74 | $23,750 | Excellent | $52,241 | Good | |
| #2 | $71,826 | 10 | $25,028 | Excellent | $65,597 | High | |
| #3 | $64,990 | 21 | $26,778 | Good | $35,625 | Challenging | |
| #4 | $61,345 | 117 | $10,533 | Excellent | $9,563 | Excellent | |
| #5 | $60,839 | 19 | $22,300 | Excellent | $19,642 | Manageable | |
| #6 | $50,856 | 15 | $17,250 | Good | $18,928 | Challenging | |
| #7 | $40,485 | 20 | $14,718 | Good | $18,349 | High |
Our program rankings answer: "Which schools have the best outcomes for graduates of this specific major?"
Unlike traditional rankings that measure overall school quality, these rankings focus on program-level outcomes. A school that's #200 overall might have a top-10 nursing program — and that matters if you're studying nursing.
Data based on 2024-2025 Dept of Education reporting standards. Learn about our methodology →
