Analysis
Syracuse's Computer Engineering program delivers strong outcomes, with first-year earnings of $84,793 placing graduates well above the national median and among the top tier in New York. While the debt figure—estimated at $27,000 based on similar programs at the university—sits slightly above state and national benchmarks, the earnings more than justify it. A 0.32 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates typically owe less than four months of their first-year salary, putting them in solid financial position from day one.
The earnings story here is genuinely impressive: Syracuse graduates outperform 77% of Computer Engineering programs nationally and land in the 60th percentile within New York's competitive landscape. That's remarkable considering the state includes powerhouses like Columbia and Cornell. Only Rochester Institute of Technology, Binghamton, and Columbia produce notably higher first-year earnings among schools with reported data. For a program at a selective private university (42% admission rate, 1351 average SAT), these outcomes suggest strong employer connections and curriculum quality.
The estimated debt figure deserves scrutiny since it's derived from peer programs rather than actual Computer Engineering graduate outcomes, but even if the real number runs higher, the earnings provide substantial cushion. Given the robust starting salaries and Syracuse's established engineering reputation, this program represents a sound investment for students serious about entering a high-demand field with immediate earning power.
Where Syracuse University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Syracuse University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (17 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $63,061 | $84,793 | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $69,045 | $102,083 | — | —* | — | |
| $57,016 | $90,829 | $105,334 | $28,500* | 0.31 | |
| $10,363 | $86,938 | $97,721 | $23,945* | 0.28 | |
| $60,438 | $82,183 | $96,016 | $19,000* | 0.23 | |
| $57,950 | $80,942 | $101,946 | $27,000* | 0.33 | |
| National Median | — | $78,952 | — | $24,500* | 0.31 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Computer Hardware Engineers
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
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 Syracuse University, approximately 16% 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 22 graduates with reported earnings and 17 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.