Computer Science at Tufts University

Tufts computer science graduates start at $106,000—nearly 50% above the national median and well ahead of most Massachusetts programs. While MIT and Harvard command the top spots in the state, Tufts sits comfortably in third place, outearning prestigious liberal arts colleges like Williams and Amherst. That 60th percentile state ranking reflects just how competitive Massachusetts tech education is, not any weakness in Tufts' outcomes. The 32% earnings bump to $140,000 by year four suggests graduates are landing at companies that reward experience with meaningful raises.

The financial picture is exceptionally clean: $15,500 in median debt represents just 15% of first-year earnings, less than two months' salary. This is rare—Tufts graduates carry about a third of what typical Massachusetts CS students owe. For context, the national median debt for this program is $23,374, and Massachusetts schools typically saddle students with $24,284.

For families who can navigate Tufts' selective admissions (10% acceptance rate), this represents one of the strongest value propositions in technical education. You're getting outcomes that approach MIT and Harvard levels without the debt burden that often accompanies elite credentials. The low Pell grant percentage (12%) suggests limited financial aid for middle-income families, so run the net price calculator early—but if the numbers work, this program delivers immediate career momentum with minimal financial drag.