Analysis
Computer science programs in Ohio produce remarkably consistent outcomes, with peer schools typically seeing graduates earn around $74,000 in their first year—right at the state median. Based on these comparable programs, Hiram's CS degree appears positioned squarely in the middle of Ohio's market, though it's worth noting we're working with estimated figures here since the college's graduate cohort is too small for the Department of Education to publish specific outcomes.
The estimated debt load of $27,000 sits slightly above Ohio's median for CS programs but remains manageable given the earnings potential. That 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates would owe roughly four months of their first-year salary, which is better than many bachelor's programs across fields. Similar Ohio programs suggest this balance works: students typically handle the debt without financial strain while entering a profession with strong salary growth.
The real question is whether a small program at a highly accessible school (93% admission rate) can deliver the same technical preparation and recruiting connections as larger CS departments. Without actual graduate outcomes to verify, you're betting that Hiram's intimate setting compensates for what it might lack in scale. If your child thrives in smaller environments and you're comfortable with the state-average debt load, the numbers suggest reasonable value—just recognize you're making that bet on estimated rather than proven results.
Where Hiram College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (38 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $26,265 | $73,932* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $64,671 | $95,688* | $103,989 | $25,391* | 0.27 | |
| $36,078 | $76,615* | $87,615 | $27,000* | 0.35 | |
| $9,577 | $76,264* | $97,188 | $47,834* | 0.63 | |
| $47,600 | $74,052* | — | $25,000* | 0.34 | |
| $6,178 | $73,932* | $81,470 | $21,500* | 0.29 | |
| National Median | — | $70,950* | — | $23,374* | 0.33 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
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 Hiram College, approximately 32% 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 17 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.