Computer Science at Central Methodist University-College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Computer Science graduates from Central Methodist earn $49,629 in their first year—roughly $20,000 below Missouri's state median and landing in just the 5th percentile nationally. That's a significant gap in a field known for strong starting salaries. Even among Missouri's 20 computer science programs, where this program ranks in the 25th percentile, nearby competitors like UMKC and Webster start graduates at $69,000+. The debt load of $25,000 is reasonable and roughly in line with state averages, but it matters less when earnings lag this far behind.

The concern here isn't just the initial salary—it's what that suggests about job placement and employer recognition. Most computer science graduates secure software development roles that start well into the $60,000s or higher, even in Missouri's lower cost-of-living markets. Starting $20,000 below the state median suggests graduates may be landing in IT support or help desk roles rather than development positions, or struggling to compete for the same opportunities as graduates from Missouri's flagship universities.

For families paying similar prices to what they'd pay at UMSL or UMKC (especially after considering financial aid), this represents a $20,000+ annual earnings sacrifice right out of the gate. Unless there are compelling personal reasons to attend Central Methodist specifically, Missouri families have multiple state schools delivering significantly stronger outcomes in this field.