Computer and Information Sciences at Friends University

Based on comparable programs in Kansas, Friends University's computer science bachelor's appears to track reasonably with state norms—estimated first-year earnings of $65,963 land right at the Kansas median, while estimated debt of $25,860 stays within typical range. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 suggests graduates could realistically manage repayment, though it's worth noting that Kansas State's computer science graduates earn roughly $10,000 more annually, a meaningful gap that persists over a career.

The bigger question is whether this program can deliver outcomes comparable to its larger state university peers. Friends is a smaller private institution serving a significant proportion of Pell-eligible students, which sometimes correlates with stronger support systems but can also mean fewer tech industry connections. The estimated figures here reflect what similar-sized programs typically produce rather than Friends' actual track record, so parents should directly ask the school about job placement rates, internship partnerships with Wichita employers, and where recent graduates have landed.

For families comfortable with moderate debt and realistic about first-year salaries hovering in the mid-$60,000s rather than the $76,000+ range that flagship programs achieve, this could work. But given the lack of program-specific outcomes data, securing concrete employment details from the school itself isn't optional research—it's essential due diligence before committing.