Computer Science at Saint Edward's University

Saint Edward's computer science graduates earn $76,000 their first year out—solidly above the national average for CS programs, but noticeably trailing most Texas competitors. Among 31 Texas schools offering CS degrees, this program sits at the 40th percentile, earning about $7,000 less than the state median. In Austin's booming tech market, neighboring UT Arlington and Texas A&M grads pull in roughly $8,000-10,000 more annually, which compounds significantly over a career. The one bright spot: debt load ranks in the 5th percentile nationally at $28,000, about $4,500 below the Texas median.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 is manageable, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off loans in under five months of gross earnings. But here's the practical concern—choosing this program over UT Arlington or Texas A&M (both public options with higher outcomes) means leaving $40,000-50,000 on the table over the first five years post-graduation. For families paying private tuition at an 84% acceptance rate school, that's a meaningful opportunity cost.

If your student is admitted to a flagship or competitive Texas public with CS, the numbers favor that route. Saint Edward's works if its smaller class sizes and Austin location justify the earnings gap, but understand you're paying a premium for an outcome that's merely average by Texas tech industry standards.