Computer Science at Suffolk University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Suffolk's computer science graduates earn $60,259 in their first year—roughly $26,000 below the Massachusetts median for CS programs. In a state known for its tech sector strength, landing in the bottom quarter of local programs is a significant disadvantage. While Boston's tech ecosystem offers plenty of opportunities, Suffolk grads are starting behind their peers from other regional schools, not just elite institutions like MIT or Harvard, but likely mid-tier programs as well.
The debt picture offers some relief: at $27,000, it's only slightly above state and national medians, and the 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio remains manageable. A computer science graduate should be able to handle this debt load on a $60K salary, though the lower starting point means less financial flexibility early in their career. One important caveat: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, so these numbers could shift significantly with a larger sample.
For parents weighing this option, the core question is whether Suffolk's location in Boston's tech hub can offset the lower initial earnings. If your child is choosing Suffolk for its urban setting and access to internships, understand they'll likely start their career earning less than classmates at other Massachusetts schools, though the debt burden won't be crushing. For purely economic returns, stronger in-state alternatives exist.
Where Suffolk 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 Suffolk University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Suffolk University graduates earn $60k, placing them in the 25th percentile of all computer science bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (33 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Suffolk University | $60,259 | — | $27,000 | 0.45 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | $154,492 | $199,774 | $12,000 | 0.08 |
| Harvard University | $152,251 | $256,539 | — | — |
| Williams College | $110,814 | $119,517 | $12,208 | 0.11 |
| Tufts University | $105,659 | $139,886 | $15,500 | 0.15 |
| Amherst College | $100,596 | — | $16,750 | 0.17 |
| National Median | $70,950 | — | $23,374 | 0.33 |
Other Computer Science Programs in Massachusetts
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Massachusetts schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge | $60,156 | $154,492 | $12,000 |
| Harvard University Cambridge | $59,076 | $152,251 | — |
| Williams College Williamstown | $64,860 | $110,814 | $12,208 |
| Tufts University Medford | $67,844 | $105,659 | $15,500 |
| Amherst College Amherst | $67,280 | $100,596 | $16,750 |
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 Suffolk University, approximately 27% 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 21 graduates with reported earnings and 20 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.