Computer and Information Sciences at Grand Valley State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Grand Valley State's computer science program delivers strong outcomes at a very accessible price point, with graduates earning $74,360 their first year while carrying just $27,000 in debt—a ratio that should calm any parent's anxiety about student loans. These numbers beat the national average by over $13,000, placing the program in the 82nd percentile nationally, though it sits in the middle of Michigan's pack at the 60th percentile. For context, while it doesn't reach Michigan or Michigan State's levels, it comes remarkably close to Wayne State and Michigan-Dearborn—schools that are considerably more selective—at a fraction of the competitive pressure during admissions.
What makes this particularly attractive is the combination of strong earnings growth (12% by year four) and manageable debt. A 0.36 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates can realistically pay off their loans in about a year of focused repayment, or comfortably handle monthly payments while building savings. The school's 95% admission rate means your child has an excellent shot at admission, yet they'll graduate into similar job prospects as peers from more competitive programs.
The value proposition here is straightforward: solid tech-sector earnings with below-average debt burden, making it a smart choice for students who want a legitimate computer science career without gambling on admission to Michigan's most selective programs.
Where Grand Valley 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 Grand Valley State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Grand Valley State University graduates earn $74k, placing them in the 82th 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 Michigan
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (21 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grand Valley State University | $74,360 | $83,360 | $27,000 | 0.36 |
| University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | $113,634 | $135,625 | $20,000 | 0.18 |
| Michigan State University | $86,192 | $94,016 | $24,022 | 0.28 |
| Wayne State University | $77,371 | $98,072 | $20,672 | 0.27 |
| University of Michigan-Dearborn | $77,273 | $91,152 | $25,000 | 0.32 |
| Kalamazoo College | $72,008 | — | — | — |
| National Median | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Michigan
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Michigan schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Ann Arbor | $17,228 | $113,634 | $20,000 |
| Michigan State University East Lansing | $15,988 | $86,192 | $24,022 |
| Wayne State University Detroit | $14,297 | $77,371 | $20,672 |
| University of Michigan-Dearborn Dearborn | $14,944 | $77,273 | $25,000 |
| Kalamazoo College Kalamazoo | $58,764 | $72,008 | — |
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 Grand Valley State University, approximately 26% 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 141 graduates with reported earnings and 137 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.