Analysis
In Pennsylvania's competitive computer science landscape, La Roche's program sits at an estimated $67,310 in first-year earnings—right at the state median but trailing the national benchmark of $70,950. While these figures come from comparable programs rather than La Roche's specific graduates, they suggest typical outcomes for mid-tier CS programs in Pennsylvania. The estimated $26,975 in debt yields a manageable 0.40 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe about 40 cents for every dollar earned in year one.
The challenge is context. Pennsylvania hosts some of the nation's strongest computer science programs, with Carnegie Mellon graduates earning $171,264 and even regional competitors like Pitt-Johnstown reaching $77,599. Similar programs in the state produce first-year earnings that put graduates in solid financial footing, but La Roche's 78% admission rate and 1140 average SAT suggest it's not competing directly with these powerhouses—it serves a different student population with different outcomes likely.
For families considering this program, the debt load appears reasonable relative to likely earnings, particularly compared to the national median debt of $23,374. However, you're betting on estimated outcomes in a field where Pennsylvania schools show enormous variance. If your student can gain admission to more selective in-state alternatives, the data suggests those programs deliver substantially higher returns. La Roche may work for students who need the accessibility, but stronger credentials could unlock significantly better financial outcomes at nearby competitors.
Where La Roche University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (38 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $33,120 | $67,310* | — | $26,975* | — | |
| $63,829 | $171,264* | $247,552 | $21,442* | 0.13 | |
| $66,104 | $124,678* | $146,438 | $13,500* | 0.11 | |
| $62,180 | $88,587* | $106,799 | $23,854* | 0.27 | |
| $60,663 | $86,930* | $104,182 | $29,333* | 0.34 | |
| $14,646 | $77,599* | $85,906 | $26,977* | 0.35 | |
| National Median | — | $70,950* | — | $23,374* | 0.33 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
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 La Roche University, approximately 14% 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 median of 17 similar programs in PA. Actual outcomes may vary.