Analysis
Based on comparable Computer Science programs in Idaho, Northwest Nazarene graduates can expect first-year earnings around $74,000—solid compensation that sits at the state median and above the national benchmark of $71,000. With estimated debt of $25,000, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34 is manageable, meaning graduates would owe roughly four months of their first year's salary. This positions the program competitively within Idaho's limited Computer Science landscape.
The challenge is that we're working with estimates derived from just four peer programs in the state, and Northwest Nazarene's actual outcomes remain unpublished due to small graduate cohorts. Among Idaho schools with reported data, there's significant variation—Boise State grads earn $86,000 while Idaho State grads start at $63,000. Where Northwest Nazarene would fall in that range is uncertain, though the state median estimate suggests mid-pack performance. The 63% admission rate and modest Pell enrollment indicate a more selective student body than typical regional universities, which could work in graduates' favor.
For parents evaluating this investment, the fundamentals look reasonable: Computer Science remains a high-demand field, and the estimated debt load is modest enough that repayment shouldn't derail financial progress. However, the lack of actual graduate data means you're making this decision without knowing whether this specific program delivers outcomes closer to Boise State's strong performance or Idaho State's weaker showing.
Where Northwest Nazarene University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Idaho
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Idaho (5 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $39,370 | $73,796* | — | $25,000* | — | |
| $8,782 | $85,596* | $99,908 | $27,000* | 0.32 | |
| $4,656 | $77,316* | $103,986 | $7,821* | 0.10 | |
| $8,816 | $70,276* | $101,213 | $25,500* | 0.36 | |
| $8,356 | $62,829* | — | $25,250* | 0.40 | |
| National Median | — | $70,950* | — | $23,374* | 0.33 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
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 Northwest Nazarene University, approximately 29% 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 median of 4 similar programs in ID. Actual outcomes may vary.