Median Earnings (1yr)
$65,222
10th percentile (40th in TN)
Median Debt
$25,000
2% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.38
Manageable
Sample Size
23
Limited data

Analysis

University of Memphis's Computer Engineering program produces graduates earning $65,222 in their first year—nearly $14,000 below the national median but closer to Tennessee's average of $69,291. Among the state's eight computer engineering programs, this places in the 40th percentile, trailing UT-Knoxville by about $9,000 annually. The $25,000 in median debt is reasonable and closely aligned with both state and national norms, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38 that graduates can realistically handle.

The earnings trajectory shows meaningful improvement, with median pay jumping to $83,391 by year four—a 28% increase that pushes graduates above the national median. This suggests the program's initial disadvantage may lie more in regional job market factors or students' initial job placement rather than the quality of education itself. For Tennessee families seeking an affordable path into computer engineering at a very accessible institution (93% admission rate), the combination of modest debt and strong earnings growth could work well, particularly for students planning to stay in the region initially before potentially relocating.

The critical caveat: this data represents fewer than 30 graduates, making it less reliable than you'd like. Small cohorts can swing wildly based on just a few outliers. If your child is considering this program, the fundamentals—manageable debt, solid earning potential, strong growth—are encouraging, but verify current program strength through campus visits and conversations with faculty and recent grads.

Where University of Memphis Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally

University of MemphisOther computer engineering programs

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 Memphis graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Memphis graduates earn $65k, placing them in the 10th percentile of all computer engineering 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 Tennessee

Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Tennessee (8 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Memphis$65,222$83,391$25,0000.38
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville$74,085—$26,0000.35
Tennessee Technological University$69,291$93,053——
National Median$78,952—$24,5000.31

Other Computer Engineering Programs in Tennessee

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Tennessee schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville
$13,484$74,085$26,000
Tennessee Technological University
Cookeville
$10,084$69,291—

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 Memphis, approximately 40% 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 21 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.