Computer Software and Media Applications at Johnson & Wales University-Providence

Johnson & Wales University-Providence's Computer Software and Media Applications program starts graduates at just $32,735—significantly below the $38,234 national median—but the trajectory tells a more optimistic story. Earnings jump 30% to $42,664 by year four, suggesting graduates gain marketable skills even if they're not landing high-paying roles immediately out of college. Among Rhode Island's limited options for this degree, this program sits at the 60th percentile, essentially matching the state median while trailing New England Institute of Technology by about $4,000 annually.

The $27,000 debt load is manageable, resulting in a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.82—better than many programs in this field. The real question is whether this growth curve continues or plateaus. That first year at $32,735 is concerning for a tech-adjacent field where many graduates expect to start higher, and even after four years, earnings remain below what top programs deliver initially.

This program works best for students who need the structure and support of Johnson & Wales' accessible admissions (84% acceptance rate) and can afford to wait for their career to build momentum. If your child needs immediate earning power to justify the investment, or if they can access more competitive computer science programs, those alternatives deserve serious consideration.