Analysis
Similar computer science programs across Texas suggest St. Mary's graduates can expect strong starting salaries around $82,700, though the $27,000 in estimated debt sits somewhat above the state typical for this degree. For a relatively accessible university—where most students are admitted and over 40% receive Pell grants—these figures indicate the program delivers competitive technical training that translates to solid earnings potential, matching or exceeding outcomes at much larger state schools.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 means graduates would owe roughly four months of their first-year salary, a manageable burden that compares favorably to the national computer science picture. What's especially encouraging is that peer programs in Texas cluster tightly together in the low-to-mid $80,000s range, suggesting St. Mary's likely prepares students for the same San Antonio and Austin tech markets as better-known competitors. The smaller class sizes that lead to suppressed data might actually work in students' favor through more individualized attention in a demanding technical field.
For parents weighing this investment, the estimated numbers point toward a worthwhile path—though verifying placement rates and internship pipelines specific to St. Mary's would help confirm whether this particular program delivers on the promise shown by similar Texas CS degrees.
Where St. Mary's University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (31 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $36,242 | $82,714* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $64,460 | $93,679* | $106,128 | $26,000* | 0.28 | |
| $9,101 | $88,391* | $98,049 | $26,000* | 0.29 | |
| $13,099 | $86,084* | — | $20,187* | 0.23 | |
| $11,728 | $84,759* | $89,635 | $19,500* | 0.23 | |
| $54,844 | $82,714* | $94,244 | $27,000* | 0.33 | |
| National Median | — | $70,950* | — | $23,374* | 0.33 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
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 St. Mary's University, approximately 42% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 9 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.