Computer Science at California State Polytechnic University-Pomona

Cal Poly Pomona's Computer Science program might start below expectations, but it delivers where it counts most: strong career growth and minimal debt. While first-year graduates earn $60,740—below both the national and California medians—by year four that figure jumps to $92,118, a 52% increase that suggests graduates are landing solid engineering roles with room to advance. The $16,500 median debt is notably lower than both the state median ($17,750) and national average ($23,374), translating to a comfortable debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.27.

The program ranks in the 40th percentile among California's 54 CS programs, placing it in the middle tier behind powerhouses like Berkeley and Stanford but ahead of many alternatives. That positioning matters less than the fundamentals: graduates are entering a robust tech market with manageable debt and clear salary progression. With nearly half of students receiving Pell grants, Cal Poly Pomona is making CS education accessible while delivering legitimate career outcomes.

For families weighing cost against outcomes, this program offers a pragmatic path into tech. Your child won't have the immediate earning power of elite-school graduates, but they'll start their career with minimal financial burden and a clear trajectory toward competitive salaries. That combination—especially in expensive California—makes this a sensible investment for students who can handle the technical rigor.