Computer and Information Sciences at Lincoln University

Lincoln University's computer science graduates start with earnings that should seriously worry any parent considering this investment. At $29,087 in the first year, graduates earn less than half the Pennsylvania median of $57,260 for this degree—placing this program in the 10th percentile statewide. That means 90% of computer science programs in Pennsylvania deliver better starting salaries. The debt load of $28,000 nearly equals that entire first year's salary, creating immediate financial strain for graduates entering a field known for strong earning potential elsewhere.

The earnings do improve dramatically to $46,372 by year four, showing 59% growth. However, even this jump leaves graduates well behind: they're still earning $11,000 less than typical first-year CS graduates from other Pennsylvania programs, and they've spent four additional years catching up. For context, top Pennsylvania programs like Penn and Villanova start their graduates at salaries three to six times higher. While Lincoln serves a predominantly low-income student population (66% receive Pell grants), families need to weigh whether this particular program provides adequate return on investment.

The critical caveat: these figures come from fewer than 30 graduates, making them potentially unreliable. But taken at face value, this program appears to underperform dramatically compared to other accessible options in Pennsylvania. Families should explore whether nearby community colleges or regional state universities might offer stronger outcomes in computer science before committing to this debt-to-earnings trajectory.