Computer and Information Sciences at Northwest Missouri State University

Northwest Missouri State graduates with computer science degrees are earning more than typical graduates from Missouri programs and managing lower debt—a combination worth noting for families watching costs. At $65,444 in the first year, graduates are outearning both the state median ($62,910) and the national median ($61,322), placing them solidly at the 60th percentile both statewide and nationally. With just $22,785 in debt—about $2,500 less than typical Missouri CS graduates—the program delivers a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35, meaning graduates owe roughly four months' salary.

The earnings trajectory looks healthy, climbing 18% to $77,340 by year four. While this doesn't quite match Missouri's flagship programs like Missouri S&T or Mizzou, it's competitive with larger private universities like Saint Louis University, and Northwest achieves this at what's likely a significantly lower price tag. For families who need their student to work immediately after graduation, these starting salaries support comfortable debt repayment from day one.

The tradeoff here is clear: you're not getting elite outcomes, but you're getting solidly above-average results with below-average debt from an accessible institution (86% admission rate). For Missouri families looking at in-state options without the pressure of highly selective admissions, this represents a practical path into tech careers.