Computer and Information Sciences at Kent State University at Kent

Kent State's Computer Science graduates start at $43,000—well below both the national median ($61,000) and Ohio's median ($50,000)—but here's what matters: they see strong 26% earnings growth by year four, reaching $54,000, and they're doing this with $25,000 in debt. That debt load is typical nationally but actually $6,000 less than Ohio's median for CS programs, giving graduates more financial breathing room as their careers accelerate.

The 5th national percentile ranking looks alarming until you consider Kent State sits at the 40th percentile within Ohio—a state where top programs like Ohio State and Cincinnati place graduates above $69,000. For families choosing between Kent State's open admission policy and more selective Ohio schools, you're trading lower starting salaries for accessibility and manageable debt. The real question is whether that $15,000-30,000 starting salary gap compared to Ohio's elite programs closes over time or persists throughout a career.

The value calculation here depends on alternatives. If your child can access Ohio State or Cincinnati, those programs justify their selectivity with significantly higher earnings. But if Kent State represents an accessible entry point into tech careers with debt under control, the trajectory shows promise—just understand you're starting from behind and betting on long-term catch-up.