Analysis
A computer science bachelor's degree from Cameron University starts at just $37,208 in first-year earnings—well below every comparable program in Oklahoma and in the bottom 5% nationally. Even after four years, when graduates reach $55,133, they're earning less than peers from University of Central Oklahoma make in year one ($64,320). That's a significant gap in a field where starting salaries typically drive long-term career trajectory.
The estimated $20,206 in debt aligns with state averages and creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.54. The strong 48% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates do find their footing eventually. But starting $24,000 below the national median for computer science grads means missing out on crucial early-career compounding—both in salary increases and retirement savings. For a field known for strong entry-level pay, these outcomes raise questions about placement support, curriculum relevance, or the types of positions graduates secure.
Before committing, investigate why Cameron's computer science grads earn so much less than peers across Oklahoma. The answer matters: if it's because graduates stay local in Lawton's smaller job market, that's one consideration. If it reflects weaker industry connections or outdated training, that's another. The debt is reasonable, but the earning power—even four years out—lags behind what this degree should deliver.
Where Cameron University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Cameron University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cameron University | $37,208 | $55,133 | +48% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $146,204 | $246,946 | +69% |
| Yale University | $133,293 | $203,685 | +53% |
| University of Central Oklahoma | $64,320 | $89,163 | +39% |
| Oklahoma State University-Main Campus | $61,514 | $83,663 | +36% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,900 | $37,208 | $55,133 | $20,206* | — | |
| $8,522 | $64,320 | $89,163 | $20,212* | 0.31 | |
| $10,234 | $61,514 | $83,663 | $23,759* | 0.39 | |
| $5,774 | $58,844 | — | $18,897* | 0.32 | |
| $7,200 | $55,922 | — | —* | — | |
| $8,295 | $55,560 | — | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $61,322 | — | $25,000* | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer and information sciences graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
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 Cameron University, approximately 41% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 22 graduates with reported earnings and 14 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.