Analysis
Similar Computer and Information Sciences programs across Arkansas suggest first-year earnings around $53,357—below the national median of $61,322 but firmly in the middle of what Arkansas tech programs typically deliver. This places UAPB's likely outcomes behind flagship institutions but ahead of several regional competitors, which matters for a state where tech jobs increasingly exist beyond the Little Rock corridor.
The estimated $22,927 in debt creates a manageable 0.43 debt-to-earnings ratio that should allow graduates to service loans while building careers. That's actually lower than the national median debt of $25,000, and with two-thirds of UAPB students receiving Pell grants, this program appears designed to serve students who need affordable pathways into tech. The real question is whether peer program outcomes accurately reflect what happens here—UAPB's lower admission standards and test scores could mean the actual trajectory differs from these estimates.
For families weighing this investment, the fundamentals suggest reasonable value if your student is genuinely committed to computer science and prepared for the academic rigor. The estimated numbers point to recoverable debt and solid starting salaries, but without actual graduate data, you're betting that UAPB's outcomes mirror statewide patterns. Before committing, investigate the program's graduation rates, curriculum focus, and employer connections—details that will matter more than these estimates when your child enters the job market.
Where University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Arkansas
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Arkansas (11 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,019 | $53,357* | — | $22,927* | — | |
| $13,920 | $67,315* | $77,481 | $50,737* | 0.75 | |
| $9,748 | $59,857* | $91,279 | $26,500* | 0.44 | |
| $10,118 | $57,912* | $59,965 | $25,901* | 0.45 | |
| $8,455 | $54,817* | — | $22,650* | 0.41 | |
| $6,906 | $51,896* | $71,999 | $21,823* | 0.42 | |
| National Median | — | $61,322* | — | $25,000* | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer and information sciences graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
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 Arkansas at Pine Bluff, approximately 67% 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 8 similar programs in AR. Actual outcomes may vary.