Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 suggests manageable returns for Computer Programming at Limestone, though both figures are estimated from comparable bachelor's programs nationally. With peer institutions reporting first-year earnings around $50,000 and debt near $31,000, graduates would need roughly eight months of gross pay to cover their educational borrowing—a reasonable starting point for a technical field. The challenge is that national data shows considerable variation in programming outcomes, with top-performing programs producing nearly $72,000 in first-year earnings. Without specific data on Limestone's placements, it's unclear whether this program tracks closer to the median or falls below it.
The school's 98% admission rate and 43% Pell grant population indicate an access-focused institution, which can be a strength for students seeking affordable entry into tech careers. However, programming employers often prioritize portfolio work, internships, and technical skills over institutional prestige. For students choosing Limestone, success will likely depend heavily on what they build outside the classroom—projects, certifications, networking in South Carolina's emerging tech hubs like Greenville or Charleston.
Given the estimates, the clearest value proposition here is keeping debt below that $31,000 projection. If your student can graduate with significantly less debt through scholarships, in-state residency benefits, or part-time work, this becomes a more compelling option. But if actual borrowing approaches or exceeds this estimate while job placement remains uncertain, cheaper alternatives deserve serious consideration.
Where Limestone University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer programming bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Computer Programming bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $27,500 | $50,242* | — | $31,050* | — | |
| $37,400 | $102,580* | $122,323 | $27,000* | 0.26 | |
| $57,016 | $83,875* | — | $27,000* | 0.32 | |
| $14,944 | $80,830* | $94,556 | $19,723* | 0.24 | |
| $44,536 | $79,819* | — | $19,500* | 0.24 | |
| $9,552 | $74,151* | $67,954 | $49,211* | 0.66 | |
| National Median | — | $50,242* | — | $31,050* | 0.62 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer programming graduates
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Network Support Specialists
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 Limestone University, approximately 43% 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 national median of 31 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.