Analysis
Drexel's strong reputation in technology doesn't fully translate in these estimated figures. While comparable programs across the country suggest first-year earnings around $38,000, Pennsylvania programs typically produce graduates earning closer to $42,000βa meaningful gap that's worth investigating. The state's median also shows Pennsylvania College of Technology and Duquesne graduates starting in the low $40,000s. Whether this reflects differences in curriculum focus, co-op structure, or simply the limitations of using national estimates for a school with distinctive programming remains unclear.
The estimated debt load of $25,600 is relatively manageable, coming in below both state and national medians for this credential. That 0.67 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests borrowers would dedicate about eight months of gross income to repaying loansβworkable for most graduates. Drexel's co-op program, which gives students paid work experience, could strengthen earning potential beyond what these peer-based estimates capture, though that advantage isn't visible in the available numbers.
Given the data limitations here, reach out directly to Drexel's career services for placement rates and actual salary ranges for this specific program. The gap between estimated earnings and what other Pennsylvania schools report is significant enough that you'll want concrete evidence this program delivers competitive outcomes before committing to a private university price tag.
Where Drexel University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer software and media applications bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Computer Software and Media Applications bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $60,663 | $38,234* | β | $25,603* | β | |
| $17,940 | $43,144* | $49,507 | $28,360* | 0.66 | |
| $47,146 | $41,394* | $48,434 | $27,000* | 0.65 | |
| National Median | β | $38,234* | β | $27,000* | 0.71 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer software and media applications graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Special Effects Artists and Animators
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
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 Drexel University, approximately 25% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 55 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.