Computer Engineering at University of Arizona

With comparable Computer Engineering programs in Arizona producing first-year earnings around $81,000, this degree path suggests solid early returns—though both the earnings and estimated $23,125 debt figure come from peer programs rather than University of Arizona's own graduates. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29 looks manageable, sitting below both the state median debt for this field and tracking close to the national earnings benchmark. Arizona State's two programs report identical first-year outcomes at this same $81,000 mark, which provides some confidence in the estimate.

What works in favor of this program is computer engineering's consistent performance across institutions. The field rewards technical skills more than pedigree, and Arizona's tech sector—bolstered by semiconductor manufacturing and aerospace—provides natural employment pathways. At less than four months of gross salary in debt, graduates have breathing room to build savings or pursue graduate education without financial strain.

The uncertainty here matters, though. Without the university's actual graduate outcomes, you're betting on the major's strength rather than this specific program's track record. If Arizona can match the state median—a reasonable assumption given their research infrastructure and 86% admission rate—the investment pencils out clearly. But verify the program's industry connections and career placement support, since those factors will determine whether your student hits that estimated earnings figure or falls short.