Computer and Information Sciences at Ohio State University-Main Campus

Ohio State's computer science graduates are starting at $82,448—nearly 65% higher than the typical Ohio program and ranking at the top of both state and national benchmarks. That $23,000 in median debt translates to just three months of first-year earnings, making this one of the most favorable debt-to-earnings pictures in the field. Among the 39 Ohio schools offering this degree, only Ohio State consistently produces graduates earning above $80,000 in their first year.

The numbers get even better with time. Earnings climb to $92,015 by year four, and that debt burden—already manageable—shrinks to less than three months of annual income. Compare that trajectory to schools like University of Cincinnati ($69,548) or Miami University ($66,030), where Ohio State graduates earn $13,000 to $16,000 more right out of the gate. Even against the national 75th percentile of $71,346, Ohio State delivers a $11,000 premium.

This program represents exactly what parents hope for: strong immediate earnings, reasonable debt, and clear upward momentum. The 51% admission rate means it's not impossibly selective, while the outcomes suggest Ohio State's reputation and Columbus's tech ecosystem translate into real opportunity.