Analysis
Similar programs in Indiana suggest computer engineering graduates earn around $75,000 in their first yearβright at the state median but trailing the national benchmark by about $4,000. That's still solid earning power for a bachelor's degree, though it's worth noting that Indiana's top engineering schools like Rose-Hulman and Purdue report significantly higher outcomes, pushing past $90,000. With estimated debt around $26,000, the ratio of 0.35 indicates graduates would owe roughly four months of their first-year salary, a manageable burden that most financial advisors would consider reasonable.
The uncertainty here matters because Anderson serves a population where 36% receive Pell grants, and families depending on financial aid need confidence in outcomes, not just estimates derived from peer institutions. Computer engineering typically offers strong return on investment, but Anderson's estimated figures place it in the middle of Indiana's pack rather than among the leaders. The school's 53% admission rate and 1054 average SAT suggest it's accessible, but prospective students should understand they're not getting the same engineering recruitment opportunities or network effects that come with programs reporting $90,000+ outcomes.
For families weighing this choice: computer engineering remains one of the safer bets in higher education, but if your student can access Purdue or similar programs with documented stronger outcomes, that difference compounds significantly over a career. Anderson may work well for students who need the smaller setting or location, but verify current graduate outcomes directly with the school before committing.
Where Anderson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Indiana
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Indiana (16 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $35,640 | $75,484* | β | $26,146* | β | |
| $56,674 | $92,123* | $110,766 | $24,834* | 0.27 | |
| $9,992 | $89,965* | $103,645 | $23,000* | 0.26 | |
| $46,588 | $75,484* | β | $27,000* | 0.36 | |
| $10,449 | $71,986* | $84,634 | $27,000* | 0.38 | |
| $35,600 | $67,500* | β | β* | β | |
| National Median | β | $78,952* | β | $24,500* | 0.31 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Computer Hardware Engineers
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Anderson University, approximately 36% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 5 similar programs in IN. Actual outcomes may vary.