Computer and Information Sciences at Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State's computer science graduates start slow at $45,401—well below Texas's $55,172 median—but experience impressive 74% earnings growth by year four, reaching $78,974. That four-year mark places them solidly in the middle tier of Texas tech programs, though still considerably behind UT Austin ($111,587) and Texas A&M ($81,231). The first-year underperformance explains the 25th percentile state ranking, but the trajectory suggests the program develops skills that the job market increasingly values.

The $23,473 in typical debt feels manageable given where graduates land by year four, though parents should plan for leaner first years. That initial salary barely covers basics in Houston or Dallas tech hubs, which could mean living at home or taking side work early on. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52 improves dramatically as salaries grow, but those first two years may require financial support.

For families seeking an affordable path into tech, this program delivers—just not immediately. The 85% admission rate and $23,473 debt load make it accessible, and graduates who stick with the field clearly find their footing. But if your child needs to be financially independent right after graduation, programs with stronger starting salaries (even if more competitive) might better serve that goal. This is a bet on patience paying off, which the data suggests it does.