Computer and Information Sciences at University of Louisville
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
University of Louisville computer science graduates earn $68,351 in their first year—substantially more than the typical Kentucky tech graduate ($50,498) and comfortably above the national median. Within Kentucky's competitive landscape, this program ranks in the 80th percentile, trailing only the University of Kentucky while outperforming larger competitors like Northern Kentucky and Western Kentucky. For a school with an 81% acceptance rate, these outcomes punch above weight class.
The debt picture requires attention: $21,500 sits at the national 75th percentile, meaning three-quarters of similar programs nationwide send graduates out with less debt. However, context matters here. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31, graduates theoretically could pay off their loans in under four months of gross earnings. Kentucky's median debt for this program matches the national figure at $25,000, so Louisville students are actually borrowing less than state peers while earning significantly more—a favorable combination.
The value proposition is straightforward: you're getting competitive tech earnings from an accessible public university. While University of Kentucky offers slightly higher starting salaries, the $3,000 difference may not justify potential additional costs or admission selectivity. For Kentucky families seeking a strong return without gambling on a reach school, Louisville delivers reliable outcomes in a field with solid long-term prospects.
Where University of Louisville 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 Louisville graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Louisville graduates earn $68k, placing them in the 68th percentile of all computer and information sciences bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Kentucky
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kentucky (20 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Louisville | $68,351 | — | $21,500 | 0.31 |
| University of Kentucky | $71,293 | $81,070 | $22,250 | 0.31 |
| Northern Kentucky University | $62,411 | $75,313 | $25,000 | 0.40 |
| Sullivan University | $52,134 | $72,304 | $36,446 | 0.70 |
| Western Kentucky University | $48,863 | $54,925 | $27,000 | 0.55 |
| University of the Cumberlands | $40,725 | — | $23,951 | 0.59 |
| National Median | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Kentucky
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Kentucky schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Kentucky Lexington | $13,212 | $71,293 | $22,250 |
| Northern Kentucky University Highland Heights | $10,896 | $62,411 | $25,000 |
| Sullivan University Louisville | $14,220 | $52,134 | $36,446 |
| Western Kentucky University Bowling Green | $11,436 | $48,863 | $27,000 |
| University of the Cumberlands Williamsburg | $9,875 | $40,725 | $23,951 |
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 Louisville, approximately 29% 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 32 graduates with reported earnings and 26 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.