Computer and Information Sciences at Truman State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Truman State delivers strong outcomes for computer science graduates, with first-year earnings of $74,794 putting them ahead of 83% of similar programs nationwide. That's impressive for a public liberal arts university with an 80% admission rate. The $26,000 in median debt is typical for the field—neither a bargain nor a burden—and the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35 means graduates can reasonably manage their loans on a starting tech salary.
Within Missouri, Truman holds its own against bigger names. While Missouri S&T and Mizzou edge ahead slightly, Truman's outcomes sit comfortably in the 60th percentile statewide—well above the Missouri median of $62,910. The earnings trajectory looks healthy too, with graduates seeing a 16% bump to $86,551 by year four. For families comparing in-state options, Truman offers competitive tech outcomes without the pressure-cooker environment or higher costs of Missouri's flagship engineering schools.
The real story here is value: solid six-figure earnings potential four years out, manageable debt, and admission standards that make this accessible to strong students who might not get into the most selective programs. If your child is interested in computer science and looking at Missouri publics, Truman represents a smart middle path between smaller regional universities and the state's top-tier technical programs.
Where Truman State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences 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 Truman State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Truman State University graduates earn $75k, placing them in the 83th percentile of all computer and information sciences 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 Missouri
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (26 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Truman State University | $74,794 | $86,551 | $26,000 | 0.35 |
| Missouri University of Science and Technology | $76,869 | $84,872 | $23,619 | 0.31 |
| University of Missouri-Columbia | $72,886 | $79,627 | $21,000 | 0.29 |
| Columbia College | $67,917 | $67,437 | $31,500 | 0.46 |
| Northwest Missouri State University | $65,444 | $77,340 | $22,785 | 0.35 |
| Saint Louis University | $64,436 | $86,913 | $37,250 | 0.58 |
| National Median | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Missouri
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Missouri schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri University of Science and Technology Rolla | $14,278 | $76,869 | $23,619 |
| University of Missouri-Columbia Columbia | $14,130 | $72,886 | $21,000 |
| Columbia College Columbia | $24,326 | $67,917 | $31,500 |
| Northwest Missouri State University Maryville | $10,181 | $65,444 | $22,785 |
| Saint Louis University Saint Louis | $53,244 | $64,436 | $37,250 |
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 Truman State University, approximately 15% 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.