Computer Science at Belhaven University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35—meaning roughly $25,000 borrowed against an estimated $71,000 first-year salary—suggests this program could deliver solid financial returns if the estimates hold. Based on national benchmarks for computer science bachelor's programs, Belhaven appears positioned near the median for both debt and earnings, which typically indicates reasonable value. The challenge is that we're working entirely with estimates here, derived from peer institutions rather than actual outcomes for Belhaven's CS graduates.

Mississippi's tech job market presents both opportunities and constraints. The state's median for computer science programs hovers around $70,000, but graduates often find better prospects by relocating to tech hubs in neighboring states or beyond. Belhaven's 53% admission rate and moderate selectivity suggest it serves a broader student population than flagship institutions, which could mean varying levels of career preparation and network access—factors that matter considerably in CS hiring.

The relatively affordable debt load works in this program's favor, especially given that 45% of students receive Pell grants. If the earnings estimates prove accurate, graduates could manage their loans comfortably. However, parents should recognize these figures come from comparable programs nationwide, not Belhaven's specific track record. Before committing, verify what career services support looks like, where recent graduates have actually landed jobs, and whether the curriculum includes the practical skills—internships, portfolio projects, modern frameworks—that employers expect.