Analysis
Norwich University's computer engineering bachelor's program lands near national norms for the field, with peer programs typically producing first-year earnings around $79,000 and debt near $26,000. That 0.33 debt-to-earnings ratio—meaning you'd borrow roughly a third of your first-year salary—sits comfortably in the manageable range for STEM degrees. Computer engineering programs nationwide show remarkably consistent outcomes, suggesting the discipline matters more than the specific school name on the diploma.
What makes this harder to assess is Norwich's military heritage and structure. The university operates both a Corps of Cadets and a civilian student body, which can dramatically affect the student experience and career trajectory. ROTC graduates may have service commitments that delay industry earnings but eliminate debt entirely through scholarships. The school's 74% admission rate and modest SAT averages suggest it's accessible to solid students who might struggle at more selective engineering programs, but you'd want to verify actual job placement rates and whether graduates land engineering roles versus IT positions.
The practical concern: with only two computer engineering programs in Vermont and no reported outcomes data for comparison, you're choosing somewhat blindly between Norwich and its in-state alternative. If your student thrives in structured, military-influenced environments, Norwich could work well. Otherwise, comparing against New England programs with actual reported outcomes—particularly public universities with lower sticker prices—would give you clearer value assessment.
Where Norwich University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $49,600 | $78,953* | — | $26,146* | — | |
| $12,643 | $141,588* | $168,957 | $16,127* | 0.11 | |
| $12,559 | $141,588* | $168,957 | $16,127* | 0.11 | |
| $20,986 | $118,232* | $135,287 | $16,875* | 0.14 | |
| $11,075 | $111,560* | $122,307 | $20,556* | 0.18 | |
| $65,805 | $111,145* | $137,144 | $14,500* | 0.13 | |
| National Median | — | $78,952* | — | $24,500* | 0.31 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Computer Hardware Engineers
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
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 Norwich University, approximately 24% 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 national median of 174 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.