Analysis
Howard's Computer Engineering program appears positioned near the national midpoint for this credential, though we're working with estimates here since graduate samples were too small to report directly. Based on comparable Bachelor's programs nationwide, first-year earnings around $79,000 against estimated debt of $26,000 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33—well within the manageable range for engineering degrees. Similar Computer Engineering programs nationally show median earnings of $78,952 and debt of $24,500, suggesting these estimates track closely with typical outcomes.
The absence of reported data from DC's limited Computer Engineering landscape (only three programs total) makes direct local comparisons impossible, but the national benchmarks provide useful guardrails. What matters more here is Howard's institutional profile: a selective HBCU (35% admission rate, 1205 SAT average) serving a substantial population of Pell-eligible students. The estimated debt load is notably higher than the national median for this major, though the earnings potential appears on par with peer programs.
For families evaluating this investment, the fundamentals look sound—engineering credentials generally justify their cost, and these projections suggest Howard's program follows that pattern. The real question is whether you're comfortable making a six-figure commitment based on modeled outcomes rather than track record data for this specific program. If your student is drawn to Howard's unique institutional strengths, the financial projections don't raise red flags, but you're investing partly on faith.
Where Howard University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $33,344 | $78,953* | — | $26,146* | — | |
| $12,643 | $141,588* | $168,957 | $16,127* | 0.11 | |
| $12,559 | $141,588* | $168,957 | $16,127* | 0.11 | |
| $20,986 | $118,232* | $135,287 | $16,875* | 0.14 | |
| $11,075 | $111,560* | $122,307 | $20,556* | 0.18 | |
| $65,805 | $111,145* | $137,144 | $14,500* | 0.13 | |
| 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 Howard University, approximately 41% 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.