Computer Science at Hawaii Pacific University

Computer science graduates from Hawaii Pacific University earn $72,448 in their first year—substantially above the state median of $57,661 and even ahead of the national median by about $1,500. That's impressive for Hawaii's tech market, where employers often complain about talent shortages but graduates from the state's flagship university earn just $42,874. HPU's relatively accessible admissions (84% acceptance rate) combined with these strong outcomes suggests the program is meeting real workforce demand.

The estimated $25,000 in debt—drawn from comparable bachelor's programs at similar institutions—produces a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35, meaning graduates would need roughly four months of gross income to cover their loans. That's a manageable load by any standard, though it's worth noting this figure is a national estimate rather than specific to HPU students. Hawaii's high cost of living could mean actual borrowing runs higher or lower depending on housing choices and family support.

For parents evaluating whether this program justifies the investment, the combination of above-average earnings and modest estimated debt points toward solid returns. The real question is whether these graduates stay in Hawaii (where the earnings advantage is clearest) or move to the mainland, where living costs drop but the competitive edge narrows. Either way, the financial foundation looks sound.