Computer and Information Sciences at Drexel University

Drexel's computer science program sits squarely at Pennsylvania's median—comparable programs across the state suggest around $57,000 in first-year earnings against $27,000 in debt. That 0.47 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable, meaning graduates would owe roughly half their first year's salary. For context, Pennsylvania's CS programs produce remarkably uneven outcomes: some grads earn $146,000 while others start closer to $50,000, suggesting that institutional reputation, co-op experiences, and individual preparation matter enormously.

The estimated figures here align almost perfectly with state averages, which tells you something important: this isn't a standout program, but it's not struggling either. The national median for CS bachelor's degrees is slightly higher at $61,000, so Pennsylvania programs generally trail the country. Drexel's 78% admission rate and solid SAT scores suggest a respectable student body, but the outcomes don't reflect the premium you might expect from a private Philadelphia university with strong industry connections.

The debt load is reasonable for a technical degree, and computer science graduates typically see strong wage growth beyond year one. Still, families paying private school tuition should recognize they're getting median-tier outcomes at what's likely an above-median price point. If your student has options at public universities or can access Drexel's co-op program advantages, those factors might tip the value calculation differently than these estimated averages suggest.