Computer and Information Sciences at Florida International University

FIU's Computer Science program delivers solid value with notably low debt, making it an attractive option for families concerned about educational costs. With median debt of just $19,999—well below both the national average ($25,000) and Florida average ($20,375)—graduates enter the workforce with minimal financial burden. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 means students can realistically pay off their loans in about four months of their starting salary.

The earnings picture is encouraging, particularly the growth trajectory. While first-year earnings of $62,562 are modest compared to top-tier programs like UF, the 25% jump to $78,418 by year four demonstrates strong career momentum. Among Florida's 39 computer science programs, FIU ranks in the 60th percentile—respectable performance that beats the state median by over $5,000. The program's 53rd percentile national ranking shows it's competitive on a broader scale.

For families balancing cost and career prospects, FIU offers a compelling proposition: competitive tech salaries without the crushing debt that often accompanies higher-ranked programs. Given Miami's growing tech scene and the program's solid track record with over 100 graduates in the data sample, this represents a financially sensible path into a high-demand field. The relatively accessible admission standards (59% acceptance rate) make this opportunity attainable for most qualified students.