Computer and Information Sciences at Columbia College

Columbia College's computer science program starts strong with first-year earnings of $67,917—outperforming the Missouri median by $5,000 and landing in the 60th percentile statewide. The real standout is the debt picture: at $31,500, graduates carry roughly $6,000 more than typical Missouri CS grads, yet still finish with a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.46. This means most graduates could reasonably pay off their loans in under four years if they prioritize it, which is solid for a private college serving a significant population of Pell grant recipients.

The catch is that earnings essentially flatline over the first four years, dipping slightly to $67,437. While this isn't a crisis—many tech workers see bigger jumps when they switch employers rather than stay put—it does mean graduates aren't experiencing the typical early-career momentum you'd see at places like Missouri S&T, where first-year earnings top $76,000. Still, Columbia College graduates are earning more than those from Saint Louis University and are competitive with the state median, suggesting employers value the degree.

For families weighing cost against outcomes, this program delivers respectable earning power without crushing debt. The slightly higher borrowing costs are offset by above-average starting salaries, making it a viable option if your student thrives in Columbia College's smaller environment—just recognize they'll need to be proactive about career advancement to match the growth trajectories at the state's top-tier programs.