Computer and Information Sciences at Columbus State University

Columbus State's computer science program produces solid middle-tier outcomes for Georgia, but you're paying above-state-average debt for below-median earnings. While the first-year salary of $56,660 lands in the 40th percentile among Georgia tech programs, the debt load of $31,000 exceeds both the state median ($27,670) and national median ($25,000). That creates an initial debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.55—manageable but not the bargain you'd hope for from a regional state university with a 99% acceptance rate.

The good news is that earnings grow nicely to nearly $70,000 by year four, a 23% increase that suggests graduates are advancing into better-paying roles. However, even that trajectory leaves them about $30,000 behind Georgia Tech and Spelman grads. The real question is whether Columbus State makes sense financially compared to other accessible options: University of West Georgia produces similar four-year outcomes, and Georgia State—with a similar admission profile—generates $65,000 in early earnings with comparable debt.

For Georgia families where location or admission selectivity matters, Columbus State delivers a functional tech degree with reasonable debt burden. But if your student can access Georgia State or UWG, those programs appear to offer better ROI. The 44% Pell Grant rate suggests Columbus State serves many cost-conscious students well, just not at the value proposition of Georgia's top-tier public options.