Computer Science at DePauw University

DePauw's computer science program starts below the national median but makes up ground quickly—graduates earn $70k initially, then jump to $94k by year four, a 34% increase that outpaces typical CS career trajectories. Among Indiana programs, this places DePauw in the 60th percentile, roughly on par with regional peers like IU-Southeast but behind the state's powerhouses (Purdue sits at $95k, Rose-Hulman at $100k). The $26,500 debt load is actually below both state and national medians, giving graduates a manageable 0.38 debt-to-earnings ratio at the outset.

The growth pattern here is the real story. While first-year earnings lag slightly behind national benchmarks, the trajectory suggests DePauw graduates are catching up as they establish themselves professionally. This could reflect the liberal arts college advantage—broader skill development that translates to advancement opportunities, even if starting salaries don't wow. The moderate sample size (30-100 grads) means these numbers should be reasonably reliable.

For an anxious parent, this comes down to expectations. If your child needs maximum earning power immediately after graduation to manage debt, Purdue or Rose-Hulman offer higher starting salaries. But if they can weather a modest start, DePauw delivers solid mid-career outcomes with less debt than most CS programs nationally. It's not a screaming bargain, but it's financially sensible—especially for students who value smaller class sizes and a broader educational experience alongside their technical training.