Computer Science at Gustavus Adolphus College

A Computer Science degree from this selective liberal arts college positions graduates solidly in the middle tier of Minnesota tech programs. While first-year earnings of around $73,000 represent an estimate drawn from comparable programs statewide, the actual fourth-year figure of $92,637 demonstrates real upward trajectory. That puts Gustavus roughly $10,000-15,000 behind the state's top performers like Carleton and the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, but squarely competitive with larger programs like St. Thomas.

The estimated debt load of $24,000 creates a manageable 0.33 ratio to first-year income—you could theoretically pay it off in four months of gross salary. This positions computer science students considerably better than many other majors at liberal arts colleges, where debt often exceeds first-year earnings. The combination of moderate selectivity (62% admission rate, 1320 SAT average) and reasonable debt suggests Gustavus isn't extracting premium pricing without delivering competitive outcomes.

The practical takeaway: This program appears to deliver solid value for students who want computer science training in a liberal arts setting, though families should recognize they're paying somewhat more than University of Minnesota rates for outcomes that land in the respectable middle of the state's range. The jump from year one to year four suggests the foundation is there—just don't expect Minnesota Tech powerhouse returns from a 1,900-student liberal arts campus.