Median Earnings (1yr)
$57,415
40th percentile (40th in GA)
Median Debt
$26,841
7% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.47
Manageable
Sample Size
72
Adequate data

Analysis

Augusta University's computer science program produces a concerning disconnect: graduates earn $57,415 initially—below both the national and Georgia medians of around $61,000—and despite 27% earnings growth over four years, they still lag far behind Georgia Tech ($105k) and even mid-tier state options like West Georgia ($70k). Landing at the 40th percentile both nationally and statewide means most Georgia families could find stronger outcomes elsewhere in the state.

The debt picture offers the only bright spot here. At $26,841, graduates carry roughly average debt and below Georgia's state median, yielding a manageable 0.47 debt-to-earnings ratio. For Augusta's mission—serving a student body where 38% receive Pell grants—this accessibility matters. Students aren't being buried in debt for weak outcomes; they're getting modestly below-average outcomes at a fair price.

The real question is opportunity cost. Georgia offers 26 computer science programs, and Augusta ranks in the middle of the pack despite its below-average starting salaries. If your child can access Georgia State (which yields $65k starting) or secure admission to Georgia Tech, those investments clearly pay better dividends. Augusta makes sense primarily for students who need the 89% admission rate and can't relocate, accepting that career trajectory will require extra hustle to match peers from stronger programs.

Where Augusta University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally

Augusta UniversityOther computer and information sciences programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Augusta University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Augusta University graduates earn $57k, placing them in the 40th percentile of all computer and information sciences bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia

Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (26 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Augusta University$57,415$73,031$26,8410.47
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus$105,137$127,253$21,1250.20
Spelman College$98,692———
University of West Georgia$69,653$86,652$26,8230.39
Strayer University-Georgia$67,315$77,481$50,7370.75
Georgia State University$65,439$79,310$26,0000.40
National Median$61,322—$25,0000.41

Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Georgia

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Georgia schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
Atlanta
$11,764$105,137$21,125
Spelman College
Atlanta
$30,058$98,692—
University of West Georgia
Carrollton
$5,971$69,653$26,823
Strayer University-Georgia
Chamblee
$13,920$67,315$50,737
Georgia State University
Atlanta
$8,478$65,439$26,000

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 Augusta University, approximately 38% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 72 graduates with reported earnings and 72 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.