Computer and Information Sciences at University of Central Oklahoma
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
University of Central Oklahoma's computer science program outperforms most Oklahoma alternatives, ranking in the 60th percentile statewide while keeping debt 19% below the national median. That $89,163 median four years out puts graduates ahead of Oklahoma State's flagship campus, despite UCO's regional university status and more accessible admission standards (82% acceptance rate). The 39% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests graduates are landing entry-level positions that lead somewhere, not just collecting initial paychecks.
The debt picture looks particularly strong. At $20,212, it's essentially at the state median and creates a manageable 0.31 ratio to first-year earnings—graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under four months of gross income. For a field where many programs saddle students with $25,000+ in debt, this efficiency matters. The combination of reasonable debt and solid earnings means parents aren't gambling on whether their child will land a high-enough-paying job to justify the investment.
The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) adds some uncertainty to these numbers, but the pattern is consistent: UCO delivers competitive computer science outcomes at a regional university price point. For Oklahoma families, this represents a straightforward path into tech careers without the debt burden that often comes with more selective programs or the earnings penalty that typically accompanies higher accessibility.
Where University of Central Oklahoma Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of Central Oklahoma graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Central Oklahoma graduates earn $64k, placing them in the 57th percentile of all computer and information sciences bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (16 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Central Oklahoma | $64,320 | $89,163 | $20,212 | 0.31 |
| Oklahoma State University-Main Campus | $61,514 | $83,663 | $23,759 | 0.39 |
| Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology | $58,844 | — | $18,897 | 0.32 |
| Southeastern Oklahoma State University | $55,922 | — | — | — |
| Southwestern Oklahoma State University | $55,560 | — | — | — |
| Oklahoma Panhandle State University | $46,721 | — | — | — |
| National Median | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Oklahoma
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Oklahoma schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oklahoma State University-Main Campus Stillwater | $10,234 | $61,514 | $23,759 |
| Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology Okmulgee | $5,774 | $58,844 | $18,897 |
| Southeastern Oklahoma State University Durant | $7,200 | $55,922 | — |
| Southwestern Oklahoma State University Weatherford | $8,295 | $55,560 | — |
| Oklahoma Panhandle State University Goodwell | $7,922 | $46,721 | — |
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 Central Oklahoma, approximately 35% 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 34 graduates with reported earnings and 34 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.