Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 suggests manageable borrowing for a computer science degree, though the figures here come from national benchmarks rather than LSUS's specific outcomes. Based on comparable programs nationwide, first-year earnings around $61,300 would put graduates in solid financial position relative to an estimated $24,100 in debtβthey'd theoretically be earning enough to handle loan payments without financial strain.
The challenge is Louisiana's weaker tech market. Similar programs across the state typically produce first-year earnings closer to $48,200, with other regional universities like Southeastern Louisiana showing $55,800 and UL Lafayette at $40,600. If LSUS graduates follow Louisiana norms rather than national patterns, the debt picture becomes tighter. The school's 83% admission rate and 38% Pell grant population suggest it serves students who need clear employment outcomes, making that uncertainty more consequential.
Without program-specific data, you're betting on whether LSUS can match national computer science outcomes or whether it follows Louisiana's regional patterns. Given Shreveport's smaller tech ecosystem compared to cities like Austin or Raleigh, ask the department directly about placement rates and which companies hire their graduates. Where students land their first jobs will determine whether this investment delivers the national median or something closer to Louisiana's lower baseline.
Where Louisiana State University-Shreveport Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Louisiana
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Louisiana (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $7,327 | $61,322* | β | $24,105* | β | |
| $8,373 | $55,786* | β | $22,952* | 0.41 | |
| $10,418 | $40,583* | $57,417 | $25,945* | 0.64 | |
| National Median | β | $61,322* | β | $25,000* | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer and information sciences graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
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 Louisiana State University-Shreveport, approximately 38% 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 443 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.