Computer Science at California State University-Long Beach

Cal State Long Beach's Computer Science program delivers exceptional value despite middling starting salaries. Yes, graduates earn $60,378 in their first year—below both the national and California medians—but they carry just $14,619 in debt, ranking in the 95th percentile nationally for affordability. That's roughly half the state median debt load. For families weighing a CS degree, this translates to a manageable debt burden that graduates can realistically pay off within a year or two of working.

The earnings trajectory tells an encouraging story. By year four, median pay jumps to $84,658, a 40% increase that closes much of the gap with pricier alternatives. While this program sits at the 40th percentile among California's 54 computer science programs, the state's elite schools (Berkeley at $150K, Stanford at $139K) serve a fundamentally different student population. Cal State Long Beach educates a significant number of Pell-eligible students—49% of the student body—and delivers outcomes that enable social mobility without crushing debt.

The bottom line: If your child can handle the academics and doesn't mind starting salary below some peers, this program offers a financially sound path into tech. The low debt means career flexibility early on, and the strong earnings growth suggests graduates develop marketable skills. For California families seeking an affordable CS degree that actually leads to employment, this represents solid value—just don't expect Silicon Valley salaries right out of the gate.