Analysis
Full Sail's Human Computer Interaction program presents a stark disconnect between national and state performance that reveals the complexity of evaluating specialized programs. While graduates earn just $26,924 in their first year—landing in the 5th percentile nationally—this actually represents the median for Florida HCI programs. The concerning reality is that Full Sail is the only school in Florida offering this degree, making it difficult to assess whether the low earnings reflect regional market conditions or program-specific issues.
The debt picture adds another layer of concern. At $33,471, graduates carry significantly more debt than the national median of $27,125 for HCI programs, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.24. However, the 44% earnings growth to $38,757 by year four shows meaningful career progression, even if final salaries remain well below the national median of nearly $60,000.
For parents, this program requires careful consideration of geography and career goals. If your child plans to work in Florida's tech market, these earnings may reflect realistic expectations. However, if they're open to relocating, they could potentially earn 50% more elsewhere. The robust sample size gives confidence in these numbers, but the lack of in-state alternatives makes this a difficult value proposition to recommend without a clear understanding of your child's commitment to staying in Florida.
Where Full Sail University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all human computer interaction bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Full Sail University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Sail University | $26,924 | $38,757 | +44% |
| Stony Brook University | $59,722 | $81,573 | +37% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Human Computer Interaction bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $26,417 | $26,924 | $38,757 | $33,471 | 1.24 | |
| $57,946 | $101,801 | — | $27,125 | 0.27 | |
| $40,595 | $83,500 | — | $24,500 | 0.29 | |
| $10,560 | $59,722 | $81,573 | $20,596 | 0.34 | |
| $37,400 | $50,265 | — | $28,209 | 0.56 | |
| National Median | — | $59,722 | — | $27,125 | 0.45 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with human computer interaction graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Occupations, All Other
Web Administrators
Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians
Document Management Specialists
Penetration Testers
Information Security Engineers
Digital Forensics Analysts
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 Full Sail University, approximately 57% 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 492 graduates with reported earnings and 618 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.