Computer Science at Southern New Hampshire University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Southern New Hampshire University's computer science program delivers exactly what its numbers suggest: reliable outcomes at a genuinely affordable price. While the $71,764 median starting salary lands right at the national average, what sets this program apart is the debt load. At $32,614, it sits in just the 5th percentile nationally for computer science debt—meaning 95% of similar programs leave students with more to repay. The 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio is comfortably manageable, and graduates can expect to pay off loans within a reasonable timeframe even if they don't land at a top tech firm.
Within New Hampshire, this is the middle option between Dartmouth's elite $133k outcomes and Plymouth State's $59k median. For families who can't justify Dartmouth's price tag but want stronger career prospects than Plymouth delivers, SNHU occupies a practical sweet spot. The school's 96% admission rate and 47% Pell grant population suggest it's accessible to a wide range of students, while still producing graduates who compete successfully in the job market.
The core question is whether your child can handle the rigor—SNHU's open-door policy means some students won't finish or won't thrive. But for motivated students who execute well, this program offers straightforward value: typical tech salary, below-typical debt, and no need to gamble on prestige.
Where Southern New Hampshire University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Southern New Hampshire University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Southern New Hampshire University graduates earn $72k, placing them in the 52th percentile of all computer science bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in New Hampshire
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New Hampshire (4 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southern New Hampshire University | $71,764 | — | $32,614 | 0.45 |
| Dartmouth College | $132,919 | $157,053 | $18,490 | 0.14 |
| Plymouth State University | $59,203 | — | $27,000 | 0.46 |
| National Median | $70,950 | — | $23,374 | 0.33 |
Other Computer Science Programs in New Hampshire
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New Hampshire schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dartmouth College Hanover | $65,739 | $132,919 | $18,490 |
| Plymouth State University Plymouth | $14,558 | $59,203 | $27,000 |
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 Southern New Hampshire University, approximately 47% 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 133 graduates with reported earnings and 162 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.