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
Earnings Distribution
How Augusta University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Augusta University | $57,415 | $73,031 | +27% |
| Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | $105,137 | $127,253 | +21% |
| University of West Georgia | $69,653 | $86,652 | +24% |
| Georgia Southern University | $63,616 | $83,106 | +31% |
| Kennesaw State University | $60,736 | $79,847 | +31% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (26 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,122 | $57,415 | $73,031 | $26,841 | 0.47 | |
| $11,764 | $105,137 | $127,253 | $21,125 | 0.20 | |
| $30,058 | $98,692 | — | — | — | |
| $5,971 | $69,653 | $86,652 | $26,823 | 0.39 | |
| $13,920 | $67,315 | $77,481 | $50,737 | 0.75 | |
| $8,478 | $65,439 | $79,310 | $26,000 | 0.40 | |
| National Median | — | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer and information sciences graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
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.