Computer Engineering at Johnson & Wales University-Providence

Johnson & Wales University-Providence graduates about as many computer engineers per year as you have fingers, which makes interpreting these numbers tricky—but they're not encouraging. At $62,056, first-year earnings fall nearly $17,000 below the national median for computer engineering programs and $9,000 below Rhode Island's already modest state median. For context, University of Rhode Island's computer engineering graduates earn $80,000—nearly 30% more. While the $27,000 debt load is reasonable in absolute terms, it's still above both national and state averages for this field, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio that looks manageable at 0.44 but reflects the underlying earnings problem.

The state percentile ranking—40th among Rhode Island's three computer engineering programs—confirms this isn't just about small sample noise. Computer engineering typically launches graduates into six-figure careers within a few years, but JWU's outcomes suggest either curriculum gaps, employer perception issues, or both. Given the school's 84% admission rate and focus on hospitality and business programs, computer engineering may simply not be a core strength here.

If your child is serious about computer engineering and Rhode Island-bound, URI is the obvious choice. If JWU is already the plan for other reasons, consider whether the computer engineering degree justifies staying versus transferring to a school where this program receives more institutional investment and employer recognition.