Analysis
A computer systems analysis degree with estimated debt around $24,600 represents a manageable financial starting point, especially when paired with first-year earnings of $54,219. That debt level—if it holds true for this school—would be roughly half the national median for this bachelor's program, suggesting students here may be borrowing less while achieving comparable outcomes to peer institutions.
The earnings trajectory looks solid. First-year graduates earn slightly above the national median for this major, and by year four, income jumps 35% to nearly $73,000. This growth pattern aligns well with how technical careers typically develop as graduates gain experience and certifications. Among the limited number of schools offering this specific program nationally, Saginaw Valley performs in the middle tier—not exceptional, but reliably above average.
The real uncertainty here is whether that estimated debt figure accurately reflects what your student would actually borrow. Since it's derived from other programs at the university rather than actual computer systems analysis graduates, individual outcomes could vary significantly based on financial aid packages, housing choices, and family contribution. What we can say is that the earnings appear strong enough to handle moderate debt comfortably, but you'll want to get specific financial aid projections before making a commitment.
Where Saginaw Valley State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer systems analysis bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Saginaw Valley State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saginaw Valley State University | $54,219 | $72,907 | +34% |
| University of Minnesota-Twin Cities | $73,013 | $95,664 | +31% |
| Howard University | $92,324 | $86,521 | -6% |
| University of Houston | $55,565 | $79,939 | +44% |
| Kent State University at Kent | $55,790 | $74,118 | +33% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Computer Systems Analysis bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,240 | $54,219 | $72,907 | $24,635* | — | |
| $33,344 | $92,324 | $86,521 | —* | — | |
| $57,220 | $73,740 | — | $20,750* | 0.28 | |
| $16,488 | $73,013 | $95,664 | $20,041* | 0.27 | |
| $8,675 | $65,084 | — | $24,279* | 0.37 | |
| $7,739 | $61,054 | — | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $52,507 | — | $46,000* | 0.88 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer systems analysis graduates
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Computer Systems Analysts
Health Informatics Specialists
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Network Support Specialists
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 Saginaw Valley State University, approximately 32% 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 18 graduates with reported earnings and 18 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.