Analysis
Missouri's tech scene has grown steadily, but Avila's estimated debt load of $31,371 exceeds both the state median ($25,236) and national benchmark ($25,000) for computer science programs by roughly 25%. With peer Missouri programs suggesting first-year earnings around $62,910, this translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.50—manageable but higher than you'd want when comparable programs exist with better financial profiles.
The earnings estimate itself sits right at Missouri's median for computer science degrees, which sounds acceptable until you consider the debt differential. At nearby Missouri S&T, graduates earn $76,869—nearly $14,000 more annually—while programs at Truman State and Mizzou also outperform this estimate by over $10,000. Even factoring in Avila's smaller class sizes and 49% Pell grant population, which can mean more support services, the higher debt burden without corresponding earnings advantage creates a tougher starting position for loan repayment.
The concerning element here is that these estimates come from only 4 comparable programs for debt and 12 for earnings statewide, meaning limited data points. If you're considering Avila specifically for its Kansas City location or faith-based mission, request concrete placement data directly from the school—where graduates work, what roles they fill, and whether employment outcomes differ from these state-wide estimates. Otherwise, the public universities offering this major present clearer value propositions with lower debt and stronger earnings potential.
Where Avila University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (26 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $38,672 | $62,910* | — | $31,371* | — | |
| $14,278 | $76,869* | $84,872 | $23,619* | 0.31 | |
| $9,470 | $74,794* | $86,551 | $26,000* | 0.35 | |
| $14,130 | $72,886* | $79,627 | $21,000* | 0.29 | |
| $24,326 | $67,917* | $67,437 | $31,500* | 0.46 | |
| $10,181 | $65,444* | $77,340 | $22,785* | 0.35 | |
| 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 Avila University, approximately 49% 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 12 similar programs in MO. Actual outcomes may vary.