Computer Science at Dartmouth College
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Dartmouth's Computer Science program launches graduates into six-figure salaries immediately—$132,919 in the first year, nearly double the national median and matching the top program in New Hampshire. Four years out, earnings climb to $157,053, placing graduates in the 95th percentile both nationally and statewide. The debt load of $18,490 is remarkably low for these outcomes, yielding a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.14, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under two months of work.
The main caveat here is selectivity: Dartmouth's 6% admission rate and 1533 average SAT score mean most applicants won't get in, and only 15% of students receive Pell grants, suggesting limited economic diversity. The debt figure likely reflects significant family resources or generous financial aid rather than low sticker prices. But for students who do gain admission, the return is exceptional—these graduates earn roughly what most computer science majors make at mid-career, right out of college.
If your child can get in and the financial aid package works, this is among the strongest computer science investments available. The earnings trajectory remains steep upward, and the initial salary provides an enormous cushion for any debt taken on.
Where Dartmouth College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science bachelors's programs nationally
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 Dartmouth College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Dartmouth College graduates earn $133k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all computer science 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 New Hampshire
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Hampshire (4 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dartmouth College | $132,919 | $157,053 | $18,490 | 0.14 |
| Southern New Hampshire University | $71,764 | — | $32,614 | 0.45 |
| Plymouth State University | $59,203 | — | $27,000 | 0.46 |
| National Median | $70,950 | — | $23,374 | 0.33 |
Other Computer Science Programs in New Hampshire
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New Hampshire schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern New Hampshire University Manchester | $16,450 | $71,764 | $32,614 |
| Plymouth State University Plymouth | $14,558 | $59,203 | $27,000 |
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 Dartmouth College, approximately 15% 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 73 graduates with reported earnings and 39 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.