Computer and Information Sciences at Georgia State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Georgia State University's Computer and Information Sciences program offers solid middle-tier performance that should satisfy most parents looking for reliable tech career preparation. With first-year earnings of $65,439 and manageable debt of $26,000, graduates enter the workforce with a healthy debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.40—well below the concerning 1.0 threshold that signals financial strain.
The program's 60th percentile ranking both nationally and within Georgia reflects consistent, if not exceptional, performance. While it can't compete with Georgia Tech's $105,000+ starting salaries, it significantly outperforms the state median of $61,318 and costs less than typical Georgia programs (debt is $1,670 below the state median). The 21% earnings growth to $79,310 by year four demonstrates that graduates build valuable skills that translate into career advancement.
For families seeking a practical path into technology careers without the ultra-competitive admission requirements of elite programs, this represents a sound investment. The university's 50% Pell grant population suggests strong support for students from various economic backgrounds, while the robust sample size of 100+ graduates provides confidence in these outcomes. Your child would graduate with marketable skills and reasonable debt into a field with strong long-term prospects.
Where Georgia 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 Georgia State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Georgia State University graduates earn $65k, placing them in the 60th 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 Georgia
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (26 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia State University | $65,439 | $79,310 | $26,000 | 0.40 |
| Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | $105,137 | $127,253 | $21,125 | 0.20 |
| Spelman College | $98,692 | — | — | — |
| University of West Georgia | $69,653 | $86,652 | $26,823 | 0.39 |
| Strayer University-Georgia | $67,315 | $77,481 | $50,737 | 0.75 |
| Georgia Southern University | $63,616 | $83,106 | $23,750 | 0.37 |
| National Median | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Georgia
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Georgia schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus Atlanta | $11,764 | $105,137 | $21,125 |
| Spelman College Atlanta | $30,058 | $98,692 | — |
| University of West Georgia Carrollton | $5,971 | $69,653 | $26,823 |
| Strayer University-Georgia Chamblee | $13,920 | $67,315 | $50,737 |
| Georgia Southern University Statesboro | $5,905 | $63,616 | $23,750 |
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 Georgia State University, approximately 50% 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 336 graduates with reported earnings and 275 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.