Computer Science at Elizabeth City State University

In North Carolina, computer science programs show dramatic variation—from Duke's $133,000 first-year earnings down to state medians around $68,000. Based on comparable programs across NC, ECSU's outcomes likely track near that state median of $67,704 in first-year earnings with roughly $25,000 in debt. That 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio falls well within manageable territory for a tech degree, where graduates can typically pay down debt within a few years of working.

What's worth noting is the earning gap between flagship and regional programs in this field. While ECSU's estimated outcomes would put graduates about $4,000 below the national computer science median, they'd be earning roughly $15,000-18,000 less than grads from NC State or UNC-Chapel Hill. That difference compounds quickly over a career. However, for students who qualify for significant need-based aid at ECSU—and 53% of students receive Pell grants—the actual debt burden might be considerably lower than the $25,000 estimate, potentially making this a more competitive value proposition than the raw numbers suggest.

The fundamental math works here: computer science skills remain in high demand, and starting near $68,000 with moderate debt gives graduates breathing room. Still, students with strong academic profiles should seriously compare net costs across NC's public universities, as the earning premium at more selective programs could justify higher attendance costs.