Computer Software and Media Applications at DeVry University-California
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
DeVry University-California's computer software program carries debt levels that should raise immediate red flags. With nearly $49,000 in median student loans—40% higher than California's median for this program and 80% above the national benchmark—graduates face a debt burden that their early earnings simply don't justify. Starting salaries of $32,159 put this program in the bottom quarter both nationally and within California, where the median graduate from similar programs earns $45,387. Even after four years, earnings only reach $38,887, still well below what typical first-year graduates make elsewhere in the state.
The contrast with other California options is stark. USC graduates from this program earn over $100,000, but even more affordable alternatives like University of Silicon Valley deliver better outcomes with comparable debt loads. The 21% earnings growth over four years is a positive sign, but it's not enough to overcome the initial disadvantage. For a family paying out-of-state or private tuition rates, this program delivers among the worst return on investment in California's computer software landscape.
Unless your child has substantial scholarships that dramatically reduce the debt burden, stronger alternatives exist both within California and nationally. At these earnings levels, loan repayment will likely consume a significant portion of take-home pay for years after graduation.
Where DeVry University-California Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer software and media applications 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 DeVry University-California graduates compare to all programs nationally
DeVry University-California graduates earn $32k, placing them in the 25th percentile of all computer software and media applications 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 California
Computer Software and Media Applications bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (14 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeVry University-California | $32,159 | $38,887 | $48,849 | 1.52 |
| University of Southern California | $103,071 | $134,326 | $23,500 | 0.23 |
| University of Phoenix-California | $83,476 | $57,111 | $44,225 | 0.53 |
| Academy of Art University | $45,387 | $72,792 | $39,715 | 0.88 |
| University of Silicon Valley | $37,693 | — | $31,000 | 0.82 |
| National Median | $38,234 | — | $27,000 | 0.71 |
Other Computer Software and Media Applications Programs in California
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across California schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Southern California Los Angeles | $68,237 | $103,071 | $23,500 |
| University of Phoenix-California Ontario | — | $83,476 | $44,225 |
| Academy of Art University San Francisco | $28,024 | $45,387 | $39,715 |
| University of Silicon Valley San Jose | $22,480 | $37,693 | $31,000 |
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 DeVry University-California, approximately 54% 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 130 graduates with reported earnings and 144 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.