Analysis
Computer engineering programs nationally cluster around $79,000 in first-year earnings, and Henderson State's estimated outcomes align closely with this benchmark. With projected debt of $23,125—below both the national and Arkansas medians—the program suggests a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans with about three-and-a-half months of pre-tax income. That's a healthy financial picture by any measure.
The challenge here is uncertainty. Both the earnings and debt figures are estimates derived from national peers rather than actual Henderson State graduate outcomes, so we're working with educated guesses about what this specific program delivers. The University of Arkansas, the only Arkansas school with reported data, shows first-year earnings of $77,306—nearly identical to the national estimate—which provides some reassurance that regional engineering salaries hold steady. Henderson's 48% Pell Grant population also suggests the program serves students who genuinely need strong post-graduation earnings.
For a family considering this investment, the estimated numbers point to solid value if they hold true. Computer engineering skills remain in high demand, and the projected debt load is manageable. The caveat: you're betting on estimates, not proven outcomes. If your child is committed to engineering and Henderson offers the right campus fit, the financial projections suggest reasonable risk—but verify job placement support and alumni outcomes directly with the department before committing.
Where Henderson State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Arkansas
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Arkansas (5 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $7,885 | $78,953* | — | $23,125* | — | |
| $9,748 | $77,306* | $103,783 | $26,500* | 0.34 | |
| National Median | — | $78,952* | — | $24,500* | 0.31 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Computer Hardware Engineers
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
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 Henderson State University, approximately 48% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 174 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.