Computer and Information Sciences at Park University

Park University's Computer Science graduates earn about $60,000 in their first year—a respectable starting salary that's roughly $3,200 below Missouri's median for this degree. While the program sits at the 40th percentile among Missouri tech programs, the debt load of $26,250 remains manageable with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44. For context, graduates from Missouri S&T and University of Missouri-Columbia earn $13,000-17,000 more annually, though those programs may come with additional pressures or requirements.

The practical math works in favor of this program: a debt load that's essentially average for the field, paired with a solid middle-tier salary. A typical graduate could reasonably pay off their loans within a few years while building their career. The program serves a substantial population of Pell-eligible students (39%), suggesting it provides an accessible entry point into tech careers without the debt burden that often accompanies private institutions.

For parents weighing this against Missouri's flagship universities, the tradeoff is straightforward—you're accepting a somewhat lower starting salary in exchange for Park's flexibility and accessibility. If your student needs evening classes, online options, or a less competitive environment to thrive, that $3,000-7,000 salary difference may be worth it. But if they can handle a traditional four-year program at Mizzou or Missouri S&T, the higher earnings would compound significantly over a career.