Computer Engineering at California State University-Chico

Based on comparable programs in California, Chico State's Computer Engineering degree appears to deliver solid earnings at a reasonable cost. The estimated $18,793 in debt—well below both the state and national medians—positions graduates for a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.25, meaning they'd owe roughly three months of their first-year salary. By year four, earnings climb to $94,197, putting graduates within striking distance of outcomes from far more selective UC campuses.

The caveat parents need to understand: these figures come from peer programs across California, not Chico State's actual graduates (the cohort was too small to report publicly). Still, the school's 94% admission rate and 40% Pell grant population suggest it serves a broader student base than elite competitors while producing comparable mid-career results. Computer engineering programs at Cal Poly SLO and Santa Clara show higher initial earnings, but they also typically come with steeper costs and more competitive admissions.

For families prioritizing access and affordability in a high-demand field, the estimated numbers point to strong value—just recognize you're making this decision with less certainty about Chico State's specific track record than you'd have at larger programs with published outcomes.