Computer and Information Sciences at New Mexico State University-Main Campus

New Mexico State's computer science program puts graduates on decent footing nationally but trails significantly behind other tech programs within the state. While first-year earnings of $63,674 beat the national median and lead to manageable debt (just $21,261), this program ranks in only the 25th percentile among New Mexico's eight computer science programs—well behind UNM's $89,498 starting salary. That $26,000 gap is hard to ignore when both schools serve the same state market.

The 19% earnings growth to $75,980 by year four is solid, and the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 means graduates can realistically pay off loans while building their careers. The accessible admission profile (76% acceptance rate, serving 40% Pell-eligible students) suggests this program provides an important pathway into tech for students who might not get into more selective programs. However, parents should understand their child will likely start behind peers from other New Mexico schools in salary negotiations.

For families prioritizing affordability and access over maximizing starting salary, this works—the debt burden is genuinely manageable and earnings are respectable. But if your child can gain admission to UNM or other top-quartile programs in the state, the earnings premium would likely justify any modest difference in cost or selectivity.