Computer Science at California State University-Chico

CSU Chico's computer science program delivers something rare: strong tech industry outcomes without the debt burden or admissions lottery of California's elite universities. Starting at $81,000—outperforming 75% of CS programs nationally and 60% within California—graduates here earn more than typical Berkeley or Stanford liberal arts majors, despite Chico's 94% acceptance rate. The $20,000 median debt is notably below both national and California averages for the program, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio that puts most graduates in strong financial shape from day one.

The 33% earnings jump to $108,000 by year four suggests graduates are successfully navigating into mid-level engineering roles, though they're not reaching the stratospheric salaries commanded by elite Silicon Valley feeders. That gap matters less than it might seem—when UC Berkeley graduates owe $30,000+ more in loans, Chico's advantage compounds quickly. For families priced out of private universities or uncertain about UC admission, this represents a pragmatic path into California's tech economy.

The real value here is risk-adjusted: your child gets legitimate tech industry access through a program that admits nearly everyone who applies, while avoiding the debt that makes some prestigious programs financially precarious. It won't open doors to Google's campus recruiting the way Stanford does, but it will train competent engineers who earn solid Bay Area salaries.