Computer and Information Sciences at Fitchburg State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Fitchburg State's Computer Science graduates earn $47,508 in their first year—roughly $24,000 below Massachusetts' median for the same degree and placing in just the 10th percentile statewide. For context, computer science grads at UMass-Dartmouth, another public institution, earn $78,000. Even nationally, this program underperforms, landing in the 17th percentile. The debt load of $27,875 isn't excessive on paper, but paired with these below-market earnings, you're looking at a debt-to-earnings ratio that works against you in a field where stronger programs routinely produce six-figure earners within a few years.
The small sample size here (under 30 graduates tracked) means these numbers could shift significantly year to year, but the pattern is troubling for a field that typically delivers strong returns. Massachusetts is saturated with strong tech employers and higher-paying computer science programs. Parents should ask why Fitchburg State graduates aren't capturing more of that opportunity—whether it's curriculum, career services, employer connections, or student preparation.
If your child is set on staying in Massachusetts for an affordable public education in computer science, look hard at UMass system schools or even out-of-state public options. The tuition savings at Fitchburg State may not offset the earnings gap you'll face in one of the country's strongest tech markets.
Where Fitchburg State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Fitchburg State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Fitchburg State University graduates earn $48k, placing them in the 17th percentile of all computer and information sciences bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (24 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fitchburg State University | $47,508 | — | $27,875 | 0.59 |
| Northeastern University Professional Programs | $115,587 | $132,227 | $23,001 | 0.20 |
| Northeastern University | $115,587 | $132,227 | $23,001 | 0.20 |
| Wellesley College | $100,644 | $132,277 | $13,350 | 0.13 |
| Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts | $80,332 | $93,144 | $22,500 | 0.28 |
| University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth | $77,970 | $90,180 | $27,000 | 0.35 |
| National Median | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Massachusetts
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Massachusetts schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northeastern University Professional Programs Boston | — | $115,587 | $23,001 |
| Northeastern University Boston | $63,141 | $115,587 | $23,001 |
| Wellesley College Wellesley | $64,320 | $100,644 | $13,350 |
| Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts North Adams | $11,884 | $80,332 | $22,500 |
| University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth North Dartmouth | $15,208 | $77,970 | $27,000 |
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 Fitchburg State University, approximately 31% 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.