Best Certificate Programs at North American Trade Schools by ROI
Every Certificate major at North American Trade Schools ranked by estimated 20-year net return on investment. Data from the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.
Programs Analyzed
7
Majors with salary data
Average 20-Yr Net ROI
-$222,342
Across all programs
Average Annual Cost
$16,973
Cost of attendance
| # | Major | 20-Yr Net ROI | Median Salary | Annual Cost | Avg Debt | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Ground Transportation.
Grad rate: 70.4% |
-$21,187 | $42,019 | $16,973 | $3,403 | Full ROI → |
| 2 |
Precision Metal Working.
Grad rate: 70.4% |
-$164,894 | $35,181 | $16,973 | $8,549 | Full ROI → |
| 3 |
Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Technologies.
Grad rate: 70.4% |
-$206,211 | $33,250 | $16,973 | $10,547 | Full ROI → |
| 4 |
Construction Trades, General.
Grad rate: 70.4% |
-$235,662 | $31,767 | $16,973 | $10,392 | Full ROI → |
| 5 |
Heating, Air Conditioning, Ventilation and Refrigeration Maintenance Technology/Technician (HAC, HACR, HVAC, HVACR).
Grad rate: 70.4% |
-$282,817 | $29,405 | $16,973 | $10,329 | Full ROI → |
| 6 |
Electrical/Electronics Maintenance and Repair Technology.
Grad rate: 70.4% |
-$295,797 | $28,759 | $16,973 | $10,374 | Full ROI → |
| 7 |
Heavy/Industrial Equipment Maintenance Technologies.
Grad rate: 70.4% |
-$349,830 | $26,070 | $16,973 | $10,561 | Full ROI → |
How ROI is calculated
20-Year Net ROI = Gross Earnings (salary × 20) − Total Degree Cost − Debt Payoff (×1.35) − Baseline Opportunity Cost ($42,000 × 20). Data from the U.S. College Scorecard.