Computer and Information Sciences at San Diego State University

San Diego State's computer science program earns its "fast riser" reputation: graduates start at $54,244 but jump to $77,291 by year four—a 43% increase that reflects real career momentum in the tech sector. While first-year earnings land at the 32nd percentile nationally, the program ranks solidly above California's median ($53,880) and climbs well beyond it as graduates gain experience. The $16,375 in typical debt is remarkably low, placing in the 5th percentile nationally—meaning 95% of similar programs saddle students with more debt.

The value proposition becomes clearer when you consider the alternative. Yes, UC Berkeley and UCLA grads earn significantly more out of the gate, but they're also competing for admission rates under 10% and often carrying substantially higher debt loads. SDSU admits about one-third of applicants and delivers solid tech credentials at a fraction of the cost. For students who might not land at a top UC but want legitimate computer science training in California's tech ecosystem, this represents a pragmatic path.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.30 means graduates can realistically pay off loans within a year or two while building their careers. With over 100 graduates in the sample, these numbers reflect consistent outcomes, not outliers. This isn't a shortcut to Silicon Valley riches, but it's a financially sensible route to a growing tech career.