Analysis
Wisconsin computer science programs vary dramatically in outcomes, and Beloit's estimated first-year earnings of $59,000 land right at the state median—but nearly $12,000 below the national benchmark of $71,000 for this degree. That gap matters when you're comparing investment options. While UW-Milwaukee and Saint Norbert graduates in the state are clearing $70,000+, similar programs to Beloit's suggest more modest starting salaries that align with mid-tier Wisconsin outcomes rather than the stronger returns computer science typically delivers.
The estimated $25,000 in debt is actually slightly lower than both state and national medians for this major, producing a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42—manageable by most standards. Computer science graduates generally enjoy strong enough salaries to handle student loans without excessive strain, and these figures suggest Beloit's students would follow that pattern. The real question is whether the earnings trajectory justifies choosing Beloit over programs with documented stronger outcomes, especially given the school's selectivity (57% admission, 1318 SAT) positions it as a competitive liberal arts college.
For families weighing this option: the data suggests serviceable but not exceptional outcomes based on peer programs. If your student is drawn to Beloit's liberal arts environment and small classes, the financial picture shouldn't disqualify it—but reach out to the career services office to understand actual placement rates and employer connections for recent computer science graduates, since those real outcomes will matter more than these estimates.
Where Beloit College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Wisconsin
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Wisconsin (18 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $58,554 | $59,093* | — | $25,000* | — | |
| $10,020 | $73,795* | $80,355 | $29,000* | 0.39 | |
| $44,432 | $70,730* | — | $27,000* | 0.38 | |
| $7,855 | $64,354* | — | $26,189* | 0.41 | |
| $11,982 | $53,832* | $73,463 | $38,409* | 0.71 | |
| $8,342 | $52,324* | $69,844 | $23,677* | 0.45 | |
| National Median | — | $70,950* | — | $23,374* | 0.33 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
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 Beloit College, approximately 29% 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 6 similar programs in WI. Actual outcomes may vary.