Computer and Information Sciences at Florida State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Florida State's computer science program offers solid fundamentals with room for growth. While first-year earnings of $61,376 match national averages exactly, the program outperforms most Florida competitors, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide against a median of $57,000. The 26% earnings growth to $77,447 by year four shows promising career trajectory, though graduates still trail top state programs like University of Florida by a significant margin.
The financial picture is manageable but not exceptional. At $20,250, student debt sits right at Florida's median for computer science programs, yet represents the 81st percentile nationally—meaning most comparable programs elsewhere carry less debt. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 is reasonable for tech fields, allowing graduates to service loans while building their careers.
For families weighing options, FSU delivers reliable outcomes in a competitive state market. The program produces graduates who start near national averages and see steady income growth, making it a sensible choice for students who gain admission to this selective university. However, families should recognize they're not getting premium earnings that justify significantly higher costs compared to less expensive in-state alternatives.
Where Florida 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 Florida State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Florida State University graduates earn $61k, placing them in the 50th percentile of all computer and information sciences bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (39 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida State University | $61,376 | $77,447 | $20,250 | 0.33 |
| University of Florida | $90,651 | $108,528 | $16,000 | 0.18 |
| University of Florida-Online | $90,651 | $108,528 | $16,000 | 0.18 |
| Rollins College | $69,707 | $72,024 | $27,000 | 0.39 |
| University of Central Florida | $68,793 | $78,429 | $22,751 | 0.33 |
| Strayer University-Florida | $67,315 | $77,481 | $50,737 | 0.75 |
| National Median | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Florida
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Florida schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Florida Gainesville | $6,381 | $90,651 | $16,000 |
| University of Florida-Online Gainesville | $3,876 | $90,651 | $16,000 |
| Rollins College Winter Park | $58,300 | $69,707 | $27,000 |
| University of Central Florida Orlando | $6,368 | $68,793 | $22,751 |
| Strayer University-Florida Tampa | $13,920 | $67,315 | $50,737 |
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 Florida State University, approximately 24% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 381 graduates with reported earnings and 350 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.