Median Earnings (1yr)
$68,010
67th percentile (40th in CO)
Median Debt
$32,078
28% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.47
Manageable
Sample Size
401
Adequate data

Analysis

Colorado State University Global's computer science program offers a compelling financial proposition that stands out nationally while falling in the middle of Colorado's competitive landscape. With starting salaries of $68,010 and remarkably low debt levels at just $32,078, graduates face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.47—significantly better than most programs nationwide. The 24% earnings growth to $84,340 by year four demonstrates strong career trajectory potential.

The program's national ranking in the 67th percentile shows solid performance compared to the 929 schools offering this degree nationwide. However, within Colorado's smaller pool of 12 programs, it ranks at the 40th percentile—trailing flagship institutions like CSU-Fort Collins ($78,856) but still competitive with the state median of $71,574. What sets this program apart is its exceptionally low debt burden, ranking in just the 14th percentile nationally for student debt.

For families seeking a practical path into tech careers, this program delivers strong value through its combination of reasonable debt and solid earning potential. The online format and 93% admission rate make it accessible, while the robust sample size of 100+ graduates provides confidence in these outcomes. Parents should feel comfortable that graduates will have manageable debt payments and clear earning growth, even if starting salaries don't match Colorado's top-tier programs.

Where Colorado State University Global Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally

Colorado State University GlobalOther computer and information sciences programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Colorado State University Global graduates compare to all programs nationally

Colorado State University Global graduates earn $68k, placing them in the 67th percentile of all computer and information sciences bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado

Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (12 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Colorado State University Global$68,010$84,340$32,0780.47
Colorado State University-Fort Collins$78,856$101,356$23,2500.29
Colorado Christian University$75,288—$35,8860.48
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus$75,137$81,271$21,0000.28
Colorado Mesa University$65,284$67,556$25,0000.38
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs$60,377$69,365$47,2410.78
National Median$61,322—$25,0000.41

Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Colorado

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Colorado schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Colorado State University-Fort Collins
Fort Collins
$12,896$78,856$23,250
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood
$39,266$75,288$35,886
University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus
Denver
$10,017$75,137$21,000
Colorado Mesa University
Grand Junction
$9,712$65,284$25,000
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs
$12,760$60,377$47,241

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 Colorado State University Global, approximately 24% 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 401 graduates with reported earnings and 482 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.