Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 suggests graduates could manage their estimated $26,000 in loans relatively comfortably, with typical computer engineering starting salaries allowing repayment within a few years rather than a decade. The estimated first-year earnings of roughly $79,000 align closely with both the national median and what similar programs in South Carolina produce—Clemson and USC-Columbia report actual outcomes in the $74,000-$78,000 range. This consistency across benchmarks provides some reassurance, though it's important to remember these are estimates based on peer programs nationally, not reported data from Bob Jones graduates specifically.
The real question is whether Bob Jones delivers the same technical preparation and recruiting pipelines as the state's larger engineering schools. Computer engineering is a field where employer recognition and internship connections matter enormously. The estimated debt load is reasonable for the earning potential, but that assumes graduates actually land those engineering jobs. At a smaller religious institution, you'll want to understand how actively companies recruit on campus and what percentage of recent graduates move into engineering roles versus other fields. The math works if the outcomes match the estimates, but with 29% of students on Pell grants, families should verify the school's actual job placement record before committing.
Where Bob Jones University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in South Carolina
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in South Carolina (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $23,400 | $78,953* | — | $26,146* | — | |
| $15,554 | $77,672* | $84,332 | $26,955* | 0.35 | |
| $12,688 | $73,982* | $75,680 | $27,000* | 0.36 | |
| National Median | — | $78,952* | — | $24,500* | 0.31 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Computer Hardware Engineers
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
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 Bob Jones University, 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 national median of 174 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.