Mathematics and Computer Science at Eastern Illinois University

Computer science and mathematics graduates from similar programs across the country earn around $89,650 in their first year—a strong starting salary that puts this interdisciplinary field among the better-paying bachelor's degrees. Eastern Illinois University's program carries an estimated $24,082 in debt, yielding a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27, which means graduates would need roughly three months of gross income to cover their loans. That's a manageable burden for a field with solid earning potential.

The challenge is context. Illinois programs show wide variance, from University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's exceptional $109,843 to UIC's surprisingly modest $44,143. With Eastern Illinois sitting at a national median estimate, parents should understand they're likely looking at middle-of-the-pack outcomes for computer science—respectable, but not elite. The school's 1010 average SAT and 68% admission rate suggest it serves a different population than flagship research universities, which may affect both curriculum rigor and employer recruitment.

The fundamentals work: peer programs produce graduates who can comfortably handle typical debt levels. But if your child has credentials for more selective programs in this field, the earnings gap could be substantial—potentially $20,000 annually based on what Illinois flagships report. Eastern Illinois makes sense for students seeking an accessible entry point into tech careers, especially if scholarships or in-state tuition keep actual debt below these estimates.