Computer and Information Sciences at Rutgers University-New Brunswick
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Rutgers New Brunswick's Computer Science program delivers exceptional value, ranking in the 95th percentile nationally for graduate earnings while maintaining relatively manageable debt levels. With first-year graduates earning $80,448—significantly above both the national ($61,322) and New Jersey ($63,789) medians—this program clearly prepares students for high-paying careers in tech. The strong 42% earnings growth to $114,399 by year four demonstrates excellent career trajectory potential.
The debt picture is reasonable given the earning power. While the $21,500 median debt sits at the 75th percentile nationally (meaning 75% of similar programs have lower debt), the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.27 is quite manageable—graduates typically earn back their entire debt in less than four months. Among New Jersey's 23 computer science programs, Rutgers New Brunswick ranks in the 80th percentile for earnings while carrying slightly less debt than the state median.
This program represents solid value: you're getting top-tier earning outcomes at a public university price point. The combination of strong initial salaries, excellent growth potential, and moderate debt makes this a financially sound investment, especially for New Jersey residents who benefit from in-state tuition rates.
Where Rutgers University-New Brunswick Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Rutgers University-New Brunswick graduates compare to all programs nationally
Rutgers University-New Brunswick graduates earn $80k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all computer and information sciences bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in New Jersey
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Jersey (23 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rutgers University-New Brunswick | $80,448 | $114,399 | $21,500 | 0.27 |
| The College of New Jersey | $84,539 | $95,016 | $24,125 | 0.29 |
| Rutgers University-Newark | $80,448 | $114,399 | $21,500 | 0.27 |
| Rutgers University-Camden | $80,448 | $114,399 | $21,500 | 0.27 |
| Seton Hall University | $73,706 | — | — | — |
| Ramapo College of New Jersey | $69,363 | — | $25,000 | 0.36 |
| National Median | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in New Jersey
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New Jersey schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| The College of New Jersey Ewing | $18,685 | $84,539 | $24,125 |
| Rutgers University-Newark Newark | $16,586 | $80,448 | $21,500 |
| Rutgers University-Camden Camden | $17,079 | $80,448 | $21,500 |
| Seton Hall University South Orange | $51,370 | $73,706 | — |
| Ramapo College of New Jersey Mahwah | $15,978 | $69,363 | $25,000 |
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 Rutgers University-New Brunswick, approximately 27% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 679 graduates with reported earnings and 659 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.