Analysis
Computer engineering programs in North Carolina span a wide range, from Duke's $111,000 first-year earnings down to UNC Charlotte's $71,000. High Point sits somewhere in this landscape with estimated earnings around $82,000—a figure derived from the state's median for computer engineering bachelor's programs. That puts it slightly above the national benchmark and suggests competitive entry-level outcomes, though without actual graduate data from High Point itself, it's difficult to know whether this particular program matches its state peers or falls short.
The estimated debt of $26,000 is manageable for these projected earnings, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32—well within the range where computer engineering graduates typically service loans without hardship. Similar programs nationally carry median debt of $24,500, so High Point appears roughly aligned with peer institutions. The real question is whether High Point's more selective private school environment (11% Pell students, SAT averages in the 1240s) translates to stronger industry connections and recruitment opportunities that would justify choosing it over NC State, which reports actual earnings of $83,000 and likely costs less for in-state students.
Given the uncertainty here, focus on what High Point specifically offers in computer engineering—co-op placements, faculty credentials, lab facilities—that might explain why the DOE couldn't report outcomes. A small graduating class could mean either an underdeveloped program or an intimate learning environment with strong placement. Ask the school directly about recent graduate outcomes and employer partnerships before committing.
Where High Point University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (9 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $44,208 | $81,841* | — | $26,146* | — | |
| $65,805 | $111,145* | $137,144 | $14,500* | 0.13 | |
| $8,895 | $82,997* | $90,912 | $24,250* | 0.29 | |
| $6,748 | $80,685* | — | $31,000* | 0.38 | |
| $7,214 | $71,117* | $90,188 | $21,875* | 0.31 | |
| 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 High Point University, approximately 11% 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 median of 4 similar programs in NC. Actual outcomes may vary.