Analysis
Strayer University's computer science program delivers solid earnings that outpace national averages, but the debt load demands careful consideration. Graduates earn a median $67,315 in their first year—landing in the 65th percentile nationally and matching the DC median exactly. With steady 15% growth to $77,481 by year four, these earnings show healthy progression in a competitive tech market.
The concerning factor is the $50,737 median debt, which sits at the 95th percentile nationally—meaning 95% of similar programs nationwide saddle students with less debt. While the 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio isn't catastrophic, it's notably higher than most computer science programs. In DC's limited landscape of just six schools offering this degree, Strayer matches the area's debt levels but falls slightly behind George Washington University's $71,192 starting salary.
For middle-income families (53% of students receive Pell grants), this program offers a viable path into tech careers with above-average earning potential. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates adds confidence to these numbers. However, parents should weigh whether the premium debt load is justified when other computer science programs typically offer similar career outcomes with significantly less borrowing. The program works, but shop around first—both for better debt terms and potentially higher starting salaries.
Where Strayer University-Global Region Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Strayer University-Global Region graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strayer University-Global Region | $67,315 | $77,481 | +15% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $146,204 | $246,946 | +69% |
| Yale University | $133,293 | $203,685 | +53% |
| George Washington University | $71,192 | $112,715 | +58% |
| Strayer University-District of Columbia | $67,315 | $77,481 | +15% |
Compare to Similar Programs in District of Columbia
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in District of Columbia (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $13,920 | $67,315 | $77,481 | $50,737 | 0.75 | |
| $64,990 | $71,192 | $112,715 | $24,500 | 0.34 | |
| $13,920 | $67,315 | $77,481 | $50,737 | 0.75 | |
| National Median | — | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer and information sciences graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
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 Strayer University-Global Region, approximately 53% 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 379 graduates with reported earnings and 460 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.