Computer Science at Drexel University

Drexel's computer science program charges more than most Pennsylvania tech programs but delivers earnings that justify the premium. Graduates earn $86,930 in their first year—nearly 30% above the state median—placing the program in the 80th percentile among Pennsylvania's 38 computer science offerings. That $104,182 four-year earning mark represents strong career trajectory, and while Drexel can't match Carnegie Mellon's elite outcomes, it significantly outpaces solid regional options like Pitt-Pittsburgh.

The debt picture strengthens the case considerably. At $29,333, graduates carry just slightly more than the national median for CS programs, yet earn substantially more—creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34 that ranks in the 5th percentile nationally (meaning only 5% of programs have lower debt burdens relative to earnings). Most students pay off this debt comfortably given those first-year salaries, especially compared to Pennsylvania peers who borrow similar amounts but start at $67,310.

Your child is essentially buying access to Drexel's extensive co-op network, which connects directly to Philadelphia's growing tech sector and major East Coast employers. The 20% earnings growth through year four suggests graduates aren't just getting entry-level positions—they're advancing. Given the relatively accessible admissions and the program's consistent performance in a robust 100+ graduate sample, this represents a pragmatic path to a well-compensated tech career without the stratospheric selectivity of Carnegie Mellon.