Computer and Information Sciences at Aquinas College

A computer science degree can be a strong return on investment, and Aquinas College appears positioned in the middle of that range. Based on comparable programs across Michigan, graduates typically earn around $67,300 in their first year—slightly above the $61,300 national median for this major. With estimated debt near $25,900, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38 means roughly five months of gross income would cover the total borrowing, which is manageable territory for a technical field.

The challenge is competitive context. Michigan's flagship programs produce dramatically higher outcomes—University of Michigan graduates earn $113,600, while Michigan State and Wayne State graduates clear $77,000. Grand Valley State, also in the Grand Rapids area, shows first-year earnings of $74,400. These aren't minor differences; they're the gap between entry-level developer roles and more senior positions or better-paying markets. The question becomes whether Aquinas's smaller environment and personalized attention translate to outcomes that justify this difference, or whether your child would be better positioned at a larger program with stronger industry connections.

For families focused on return on investment, this matters. The estimated numbers suggest a decent foundation—debt you can realistically pay off and earnings above the national average. But if your student can access one of Michigan's higher-performing programs, the earnings advantage could compound significantly over a career. Aquinas may work well for students who need a supportive environment or have geographical constraints, but it's worth understanding what drives that $10,000-$40,000 gap compared to other in-state options.