Computer Software and Media Applications at Clarkson University

For a bachelor's degree in computer software and media applications, Clarkson's estimated outcomes sit squarely in the middle of what New York programs typically deliver—around $39,582 in first-year earnings with roughly $25,500 in debt. That's a manageable 0.64 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe about 8 months' salary. However, these figures come from peer programs across New York, not Clarkson's own graduates, so there's inherent uncertainty about whether this specific program matches that median performance.

What's concerning is the significant earning gap within the state itself. While Rochester Institute of Technology grads start at $69,000—nearly double the estimated figure here—Clarkson's estimated outcomes align more closely with arts-focused institutions like School of Visual Arts. For a university with a 1307 average SAT and strong STEM reputation, you'd expect better technical program outcomes. The relatively low Pell percentage (20%) suggests this isn't a school where affordability drives enrollment, yet the estimated returns appear modest for what families are likely paying.

The practical question: Are you comfortable with middle-of-the-pack estimated outcomes at what's likely above-average tuition? If your child could access RIT or NYU's programs—which show substantially stronger earnings—that difference compounds significantly over a career. Given the data limitations, asking Clarkson directly about employment outcomes and comparing total cost of attendance against state flagships would help determine if this represents genuine value or just acceptable risk.