Analysis
At $77,306 starting and $103,783 after four years, University of Arkansas computer engineering graduates see solid earnings growth—though the starting salary tracks just below the national median of $79,000. The 34% earnings bump from year one to year four is encouraging, showing graduates gain valuable skills and experience that translate to higher pay. Within Arkansas, this program ranks in the 60th percentile, performing better than most in-state alternatives, which matters if you're an Arkansas resident weighing in-state tuition options.
The debt picture is notably favorable: $26,500 is below the national median, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34—meaning graduates earn nearly three times their debt in the first year alone. That's a manageable burden that shouldn't derail financial goals. The 28th percentile debt ranking nationally confirms this program keeps borrowing in check compared to peer institutions.
The major caveat here is sample size—fewer than 30 graduates reported data, so individual outcomes could vary more than these medians suggest. Still, the fundamentals look reasonable: competitive earnings that grow meaningfully, low debt, and solid positioning among Arkansas engineering programs. For in-state students especially, this represents a sensible path into a high-demand field without excessive financial risk.
Where University of Arkansas Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Arkansas graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Arkansas | $77,306 | $103,783 | +34% |
| University of Washington-Bothell Campus | $141,588 | $168,957 | +19% |
| University of Washington-Seattle Campus | $141,588 | $168,957 | +19% |
| Santa Clara University | $103,804 | $159,782 | +54% |
| Duke University | $111,145 | $137,144 | +23% |
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,748 | $77,306 | $103,783 | $26,500 | 0.34 | |
| $12,643 | $141,588 | $168,957 | $16,127 | 0.11 | |
| $12,559 | $141,588 | $168,957 | $16,127 | 0.11 | |
| $20,986 | $118,232 | $135,287 | $16,875 | 0.14 | |
| $11,075 | $111,560 | $122,307 | $20,556 | 0.18 | |
| $65,805 | $111,145 | $137,144 | $14,500 | 0.13 | |
| National Median | — | $78,952 | — | $24,500 | 0.31 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Computer Hardware Engineers
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
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, approximately 17% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 19 graduates with reported earnings and 21 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.