Computer Science at Georgetown University

Georgetown's Computer Science program launches graduates into strong salaries—$93,000 in year one climbing to $126,000 by year four—while keeping debt remarkably low at just $16,000. That 0.17 debt-to-earnings ratio means your child would owe less than two months' salary, giving them real financial breathing room that most CS graduates don't enjoy. Nationally, this program outperforms 88% of computer science programs in both earnings and debt management.

The Washington DC context tells an interesting story. While Georgetown ties for the median DC earnings, neighboring George Washington University's CS grads earn about $11,000 more initially. That gap matters in a city with only six CS programs, where Georgetown's highly selective environment (13% admission rate) might suggest stronger outcomes. The 36% earnings growth over four years is solid, though whether that narrows the GW gap isn't clear from the data.

The investment case here is straightforward: minimal debt burden with above-average earnings that grow substantially. For families who can navigate Georgetown's competitive admissions and aren't relying heavily on need-based aid (only 10% receive Pell grants), this program delivers strong returns without the debt overhang that plagues many graduates. Just know you're not getting the absolute top DC outcomes, despite the prestigious name.