Computer and Information Sciences at Simpson College

Simpson's computer science program shows promising mid-career potential, with earnings jumping to $93,506 by year four—well above what most Iowa and national programs deliver at that milestone. The challenge lies in the initial phase: first-year earnings estimated around $60,397 based on comparable Iowa programs suggest a slower start than graduates might expect from a tech degree. With estimated debt of $25,860, new graduates would be committing roughly 43% of that first year's income to repayment under standard terms, manageable but not comfortable.

The four-year earnings figure deserves attention. While we can't verify Simpson-specific outcomes for recent grads, the reported $93,506 at the four-year mark places graduates in strong financial territory if they stay in tech roles. That trajectory—from an estimated $60K to a reported $93K—implies either rapid skill development or successful navigation into higher-paying specializations. The question is whether your student can weather that initial period when peers at larger state programs might land similar starting positions with less debt.

For families considering this investment, the key is understanding you're betting on growth potential rather than immediate payoff. The mid-career number suggests graduates who stick with it do well, but the estimated first-year figure and debt load mean careful budgeting early on. If your student thrives in smaller settings and values Simpson's environment, the later earnings could justify the start, but compare total costs carefully against Iowa's public options offering similar early outcomes with typically lower price tags.