Computer and Information Sciences at Roanoke College

Based on comparable computer science programs in Virginia, the projected earnings of $68,364 sit right at the state median—a solid outcome, but one that trails the state's flagship universities by $25,000 to $30,000 annually. The estimated $27,000 in debt yields a manageable 0.39 debt-to-earnings ratio, which is better than the typical tech graduate nationally who carries $25,000 at lower median earnings of $61,322.

What makes this harder to assess is the significant earnings spread among Virginia's computer science programs. While UVA and Virginia Tech graduates command nearly $100,000, and even mid-tier state schools like VCU and JMU produce outcomes in the low-$80,000s, peer programs suggest Roanoke produces more modest returns despite reasonable debt levels. The 80% admission rate and mid-range SAT scores indicate accessible entry, but the career outcomes may reflect a different job market reality than what the state's research universities deliver.

For families choosing between Roanoke and larger Virginia public universities, the estimated figures suggest a $10,000-15,000 annual earnings gap that could compound significantly over a career. The debt is reasonable enough that repayment shouldn't be crushing, but with limited actual data from Roanoke's own graduates, it's worth understanding whether the smaller college environment justifies potentially leaving substantial earnings on the table compared to programs at Virginia's larger institutions.