Computer Science at Towson University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Towson University's Computer Science program delivers something increasingly rare: strong early career earnings that accelerate meaningfully over time. Starting at $71,795, graduates see their salaries jump 29% to reach $92,268 by year four—a trajectory that suggests employers value the technical foundation students receive here. With debt of just $20,340 (below both state and national medians), the financial equation is straightforward: you're paying off less than three-tenths of your first year's salary for a degree that opens doors to six-figure earnings potential.
Among Maryland's 11 computer science programs, Towson lands squarely in the 60th percentile—not the flagship level of UMD College Park ($99,756 starting), but substantially ahead of options like Frostburg State. The 83% admission rate means this isn't an academically exclusive program, yet graduates command market-rate tech salaries. That accessibility matters when you consider that one-third of students here receive Pell grants.
The calculus is simple: reasonable debt, competitive starting pay, and strong momentum in those crucial early career years. For Maryland families weighing in-state options, Towson offers a cost-effective path into tech careers without requiring elite test scores or leaving you financially overextended.
Where Towson 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 Towson University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Towson University graduates earn $72k, placing them in the 52th percentile of all computer science bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Maryland
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maryland (11 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Towson University | $71,795 | $92,268 | $20,340 | 0.28 |
| University of Maryland-College Park | $99,756 | — | $20,000 | 0.20 |
| University of Maryland-Baltimore County | $83,684 | $95,052 | $20,000 | 0.24 |
| Loyola University Maryland | $61,017 | — | $27,000 | 0.44 |
| Frostburg State University | $54,349 | — | $21,500 | 0.40 |
| National Median | $70,950 | — | $23,374 | 0.33 |
Other Computer Science Programs in Maryland
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Maryland schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Maryland-College Park College Park | $11,505 | $99,756 | $20,000 |
| University of Maryland-Baltimore County Baltimore | $12,952 | $83,684 | $20,000 |
| Loyola University Maryland Baltimore | $55,480 | $61,017 | $27,000 |
| Frostburg State University Frostburg | $9,998 | $54,349 | $21,500 |
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 Towson University, approximately 33% 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 141 graduates with reported earnings and 138 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.