Analysis
UTA's computer engineering graduates start at $81,226 and climb to just over $100,000 within four years—solid outcomes that place this program right in the middle of Texas's competitive engineering landscape. While Texas A&M and Texas Tech graduates earn roughly $5,000 more initially, UTA outpaces both University of Houston and UT Dallas, making it a strong mid-tier option in a state known for engineering talent.
The debt picture reinforces the value here: $20,833 is below both state and national medians for computer engineering, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.26. That means graduates owe about three months' salary, which they can realistically pay down quickly given the strong earning trajectory. The 24% earnings growth over four years suggests graduates are landing roles with genuine career progression, not just entry-level positions with flat wages.
For families considering more expensive or selective programs, UTA offers a compelling alternative. The 81% admission rate and accessible profile mean students have a realistic shot at admission, while the 40% Pell Grant rate indicates the school successfully serves first-generation and lower-income students without compromising career outcomes. You're getting solidly above-average computer engineering results without the premium price tag or cutthroat admissions of flagship programs—a practical choice that delivers where it counts.
Where The University of Texas at Arlington Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How The University of Texas at Arlington 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| The University of Texas at Arlington | $81,226 | $101,060 | +24% |
| Texas A&M University-College Station | $86,366 | $104,901 | +21% |
| The University of Texas at Dallas | $77,609 | $98,131 | +26% |
| University of North Texas | $78,714 | $96,651 | +23% |
| Texas Tech University | $85,619 | $96,395 | +13% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11,728 | $81,226 | $101,060 | $20,833 | 0.26 | |
| $13,099 | $86,366 | $104,901 | $22,816 | 0.26 | |
| $11,852 | $85,619 | $96,395 | $27,000 | 0.32 | |
| $9,711 | $80,438 | — | $21,582 | 0.27 | |
| $11,164 | $78,714 | $96,651 | $23,235 | 0.30 | |
| $14,564 | $77,609 | $98,131 | $21,000 | 0.27 | |
| 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 The University of Texas at Arlington, approximately 40% 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 86 graduates with reported earnings and 62 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.