Analysis
Based on comparable Computer Science programs in Ohio, Ohio Wesleyan appears positioned right at the state median with estimated first-year earnings around $74,000—solid for the field but not exceptional. The estimated $27,000 in debt yields a manageable 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio, suggesting graduates could reasonably expect to handle loan payments while building their careers. What's less clear is how this smaller liberal arts program stacks up against Ohio's strongest tech feeders like Case Western, which places graduates at nearly $96,000.
The real question is whether Ohio Wesleyan's selective environment (SAT scores around 1311, 51% admission rate) translates into the kind of recruiting relationships and technical preparation that drive higher outcomes. Peer programs in Ohio suggest typical graduates land around $74,000, but the range is wide—from state university programs at $74,000 to Case Western's significantly higher placements. Without school-specific data, it's hard to know if Ohio Wesleyan's smaller CS cohort benefits from individualized attention or struggles with fewer on-campus recruiting opportunities.
For a family considering this investment, the debt level seems reasonable if your child actually completes the degree and secures a standard developer role. The uncertainty lies in whether Ohio Wesleyan's particular program delivers outcomes at the state median or falls short—something worth investigating directly with the department about job placement rates and where recent graduates have landed.
Where Ohio Wesleyan University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (38 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $52,357 | $73,932* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $64,671 | $95,688* | $103,989 | $25,391* | 0.27 | |
| $36,078 | $76,615* | $87,615 | $27,000* | 0.35 | |
| $9,577 | $76,264* | $97,188 | $47,834* | 0.63 | |
| $47,600 | $74,052* | — | $25,000* | 0.34 | |
| $6,178 | $73,932* | $81,470 | $21,500* | 0.29 | |
| 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 Ohio Wesleyan University, approximately 25% 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 17 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.