Computer and Information Sciences at Bentley University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Bentley's Computer Science program launches graduates into strong starting salaries that get even stronger—alumni earn $72,000 in year one, then jump to $100,000 by year four, a 39% gain that outpaces typical early-career growth in tech. With debt at $26,000, graduates owe just 36% of their first year's salary, meaning loan payments won't dominate their budget while they're establishing themselves professionally. This ranks solidly in the 77th percentile nationally, placing Bentley well above the national median of $61,000.
The Massachusetts context tells an interesting story. At the state's median earnings level, Bentley matches what's typical for computer science in one of the country's strongest tech markets, hitting the 60th percentile among Bay State programs. Yes, Northeastern and Wellesley graduates earn more out of the gate ($115k+), but Bentley's trajectory shows strong momentum, and the debt load is comparable to state norms. For a school with a 48% admission rate, these outcomes punch above their weight—you're not paying Ivy prices but still accessing the same job market that values Boston-area tech talent.
The fundamentals work here: manageable debt, earnings that quickly accelerate past six figures, and solid positioning in both national and state contexts. Bentley appears to successfully blend business-focused tech training with employer connections that translate into real compensation growth.
Where Bentley University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
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 Bentley University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Bentley University graduates earn $72k, placing them in the 77th 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 Massachusetts
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (24 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bentley University | $72,227 | $100,068 | $26,000 | 0.36 |
| Northeastern University Professional Programs | $115,587 | $132,227 | $23,001 | 0.20 |
| Northeastern University | $115,587 | $132,227 | $23,001 | 0.20 |
| Wellesley College | $100,644 | $132,277 | $13,350 | 0.13 |
| Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts | $80,332 | $93,144 | $22,500 | 0.28 |
| University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth | $77,970 | $90,180 | $27,000 | 0.35 |
| National Median | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Massachusetts
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Massachusetts schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeastern University Professional Programs Boston | — | $115,587 | $23,001 |
| Northeastern University Boston | $63,141 | $115,587 | $23,001 |
| Wellesley College Wellesley | $64,320 | $100,644 | $13,350 |
| Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts North Adams | $11,884 | $80,332 | $22,500 |
| University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth North Dartmouth | $15,208 | $77,970 | $27,000 |
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 Bentley University, approximately 15% 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.