Computer Science at Rasmussen University-Illinois

Computer science graduates from Rasmussen's Illinois campus face a challenging financial equation. While the program delivers solid 37% earnings growth over four years, it ranks in just the 25th percentile among Illinois CS programs—meaning three-quarters of the state's graduates earn more. That starting salary of $53,832 trails the Illinois median by nearly $18,000, and falls $31,000 short of what nearby University of Illinois grads command. The $38,409 debt load compounds the problem: it's 50% higher than what typical Illinois CS grads carry, despite significantly lower earning potential.

The program does serve a predominantly Pell-eligible student body (63%), suggesting it provides access to tech careers for students who might otherwise lack opportunity. By year four, earnings reach $73,463—respectable and above the national median for all bachelor's degrees. But here's the reality check: Illinois has 41 CS programs, and this one underperforms most of them on both earnings and debt metrics.

For families weighing this option, the math matters. That 0.71 debt-to-earnings ratio means your child would graduate owing about nine months of their first-year salary—manageable but not ideal when state flagship programs typically deliver both lower debt and substantially higher starting salaries. If in-state tuition at a public university is accessible, that's almost certainly the better investment for a CS degree in Illinois.