Computer Science at Missouri State University-Springfield

Missouri State's computer science grads start at $64,949—about $5,000 below Missouri's median and sitting in the 40th percentile statewide. That's noticeably behind the state flagship and Saint Louis-area universities. But here's what matters more: over the next three years, earnings jump 31% to nearly $85,000, outpacing the typical trajectory for CS programs. With just $22,272 in debt (below both state and national averages), graduates aren't carrying burdens that undermine that growth.

The value equation here depends on your alternatives. If your child can get into Washington University or Mizzou's programs, those deliver stronger starting salaries. But Missouri State's 91% admission rate and lower tuition make it accessible to students who might not have those options, and the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34 means the investment pays off within the first year. The gap between Missouri State grads and top-tier programs narrows substantially by year four—something you don't see in every field.

For families prioritizing affordability over prestige, this works. Your child graduates with manageable debt, enters the workforce making a livable wage, and sees meaningful salary progression. Just know they're not starting at the top of Missouri's CS market.