Computer and Information Sciences at Muskingum University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52 suggests manageable starting finances, but the earnings picture tells a more complex story. Based on comparable computer science programs in Ohio, graduates here would likely earn around $50,000 in their first year—roughly $11,000 below the national median for this major. That gap becomes starker when you see that Ohio's top-performing programs report starting salaries in the $66,000 to $82,000 range, potentially reflecting stronger industry connections or recruiting pipelines that may not extend as readily to smaller schools.

The estimated $25,860 in debt sits slightly above the national median for this major, though it's actually lower than Ohio's typical $31,000. For a tech degree where employers often prioritize skills over pedigree, this could work if the curriculum delivers current, marketable expertise. However, the earnings differential suggests parents should verify whether Muskingum's program provides robust internship opportunities and connections to Ohio's tech hubs in Columbus, Cincinnati, or Cleveland—networking that could be crucial for closing the salary gap.

Consider whether your student will thrive in a smaller program setting where individual attention might compensate for fewer corporate recruiting visits, or whether they'd benefit from the higher placement rates larger programs achieve. The debt is reasonable for a computer science degree, but only if the career launch justifies the $50,000 starting point rather than the $70,000+ outcomes possible elsewhere in the state.