Computer Science at University of Illinois Chicago

UIC's computer science program offers solid value with a crucial caveat about debt levels. Graduates earn $78,040 in their first year and see healthy 27% growth to nearly $99,000 by year four—placing the program in the 68th percentile nationally and 60th percentile among Illinois schools. While these earnings lag behind elite programs like UIUC ($124,530) and Northwestern ($99,981), they significantly outpace both national ($70,950) and state ($71,355) medians.

The concerning element is debt burden. At $19,087, graduates carry less debt than typical computer science students nationally ($23,374) or in Illinois ($25,625), but UIC ranks in the 77th percentile for debt levels—meaning most comparable programs saddle students with less debt. However, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.24 remains manageable, and the strong earnings trajectory helps graduates quickly outpace their debt obligations.

For families seeking an accessible computer science education—UIC admits 79% of applicants compared to ultra-competitive alternatives—this program delivers respectable outcomes without the crushing debt often associated with private institutions. The combination of above-average earnings growth and reasonable debt levels makes this a sensible choice, particularly for students who might not gain admission to Illinois's top-tier programs.