Analysis
UCCS Computer Engineering graduates start at $82,000—landing squarely in the middle of Colorado's engineering programs and beating 66% of similar programs nationwide. That's a respectable outcome, especially considering the school's 97% admission rate makes it accessible to students who might not get into more selective engineering schools. With debt around $25,000, graduates earn more than three times their debt in their first year, a comfortable ratio that should make loan repayment manageable.
The caveat here is sample size: fewer than 30 graduates means a single high or low earner can swing these numbers significantly. You're looking at a limited track record, which matters when you're betting four years and tuition dollars on an outcome. That said, the program sits at the median for Colorado engineering earnings, suggesting it's producing results consistent with the state's engineering job market rather than being an outlier.
For a student who wants to study engineering close to Colorado Springs' growing tech sector—think defense contractors, aerospace, and cybersecurity firms—this program offers a practical path. The low debt and solid starting salary create financial breathing room. Just know you're relying on limited data, and the school's high acceptance rate means you'll need self-discipline to succeed in a demanding major.
Where University of Colorado Colorado Springs Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Colorado Colorado Springs graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Colorado
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Colorado (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,712 | $82,084 | — | $25,075 | 0.31 | |
| $16,430 | $86,211 | $96,333 | $23,000 | 0.27 | |
| $12,010 | $56,557 | — | — | — | |
| 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 Colorado Colorado Springs, approximately 26% 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 23 graduates with reported earnings and 22 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.