Computer Systems Analysis at DeVry University-California

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.