Analysis
Computer science programs across Ohio typically produce first-year earnings around $74,000, and based on peer programs in the state, University of Akron's graduates likely fall in that rangeβright at the state median. The estimated debt of $21,500 is actually slightly lower than what similar Ohio programs carry, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio under 0.30 that should work in most graduates' favor. This is the kind of financial profile where monthly loan payments won't dominate a tech worker's budget.
What's harder to assess is how Akron specifically prepares students compared to its competitors. Case Western Reserve commands a significant premium in early earnings (nearly $96,000), but Franklin University and University of Dayton graduates reportedly earn similar amounts to what we'd expect from Akron while likely paying more upfront. The school's 71% admission rate and modest test scores suggest it serves a broader range of students, which could mean variable outcomes depending on individual preparation and effort.
The practical takeaway: computer science remains one of the more reliable pathways to justify college debt, and the estimated numbers here don't raise red flags. But without actual graduate outcomes from Akron's program, you're making this decision with less certainty than ideal. If your student has stronger credentials, comparing financial aid packages against schools with proven track records makes sense.
Where University of Akron Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (38 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,799 | $73,932* | β | $21,500* | β | |
| $64,671 | $95,688* | $103,989 | $25,391* | 0.27 | |
| $36,078 | $76,615* | $87,615 | $27,000* | 0.35 | |
| $9,577 | $76,264* | $97,188 | $47,834* | 0.63 | |
| $47,600 | $74,052* | β | $25,000* | 0.34 | |
| $6,178 | $73,932* | $81,470 | $21,500* | 0.29 | |
| National Median | β | $70,950* | β | $23,374* | 0.33 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer science graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Information Security Analysts
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
Clinical Data Managers
Computer Programmers
Web Developers
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 University of Akron Main Campus, approximately 29% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 17 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.