Computer and Information Sciences at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Kutztown's computer science graduates start significantly behind their Pennsylvania peers, earning $48,056 in their first year—about $9,200 below the state median and in just the 25th percentile among PA programs. That's a meaningful gap in a field where starting salaries typically matter for career trajectory. While the $27,000 in debt matches the state average and remains manageable at 56% of first-year earnings, the bigger concern is that initial earnings shortfall.

The 52% earnings growth to $73,137 by year four tells a more encouraging story, suggesting graduates can catch up as they gain experience. By year four, they're earning above both state and national medians for the field. However, this pattern may reflect career movement—graduates might be leaving for higher-paying markets or switching employers to reach competitive salary levels. The university's 95% admission rate and modest academic profile likely correlate with fewer immediate connections to top-tier tech employers.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether your student can navigate that weaker initial positioning. If they're resourceful about internships, willing to relocate for better opportunities, or planning graduate school, the manageable debt load provides flexibility. But if they need strong immediate earnings or lack the networks to pivot quickly, they'd benefit from comparing outcomes at schools like Lehigh or Villanova, where graduates start $35,000+ higher despite similar debt levels.