Analysis
DeVry University-California's Computer Systems Analysis program delivers concerning results that should give parents pause. While the $51,805 starting salary isn't catastrophically low, graduates earn significantly less than their peers—ranking in just the 25th percentile nationally and 40th percentile within California, where the state median is $56,430. The debt burden of $46,000 creates a manageable but tight debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.89, though this debt level matches both national and state medians.
The program does show solid earning potential over time, with salaries growing 26% to $65,324 by year four. However, even this growth doesn't close the gap with stronger programs—California State University-San Marcos graduates start at $61,054, already higher than DeVry's four-year mark. Given that only three California schools offer this specific program, the limited competition makes DeVry's underperformance more notable.
For families considering this investment, the numbers suggest you'd be paying full price for below-average outcomes in a competitive tech market. With 54% of students receiving Pell grants, the program serves many low-income students, but the earnings trajectory suggests limited return on investment compared to alternatives. Unless your child has specific circumstances that make DeVry the only viable option, exploring other computer science or IT programs at California State Universities would likely provide better financial returns.
Where DeVry University-California Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer systems analysis bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How DeVry University-California graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeVry University-California | $51,805 | $65,324 | +26% |
| University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | $73,013 | $95,664 | +31% |
| Howard University | $92,324 | $86,521 | -6% |
| University of Houston | $55,565 | $79,939 | +44% |
| Kent State University at Kent | $55,790 | $74,118 | +33% |
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Computer Systems Analysis bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (3 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $17,488 | $51,805 | $65,324 | $46,000 | 0.89 | |
| $7,739 | $61,054 | — | — | — | |
| National Median | — | $52,507 | — | $46,000 | 0.88 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer systems analysis graduates
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Computer Systems Analysts
Health Informatics Specialists
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Network Support Specialists
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 562 graduates with reported earnings and 639 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.