Analysis
Computer engineering programs at Mississippi's four schools show significant variation, with outcomes ranging from around $50,000 to over $70,000 in first-year earnings. Based on peer programs nationally, Ole Miss likely falls near the middle of this range at roughly $79,000—well above the state median of $62,000 but consistent with what similar engineering programs produce across the country. The estimated debt load of $23,000 creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29, meaning monthly loan payments would consume less than a third of one month's salary.
What's harder to gauge is where Ole Miss's specific program sits within the state's competitive landscape. Mississippi State's reported outcomes of $72,500 suggest established engineering programs in Mississippi can deliver strong returns, though national peer data hints Ole Miss could perform even better. The 98% admission rate and modest test scores might raise questions about academic rigor, but engineering programs tend to be self-selecting regardless of institutional selectivity—the curriculum itself weeds out students who aren't committed.
The key limitation here is certainty. These estimates tell you what comparable computer engineering programs typically produce, not what Ole Miss graduates actually earn. If direct placement rates or alumni earnings data exists through the engineering department, that would provide much clearer evidence of value than these national proxies can offer.
Where University of Mississippi Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Mississippi
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Mississippi (4 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,412 | $78,953* | — | $23,125* | — | |
| $9,815 | $72,529* | — | $19,500* | 0.27 | |
| $9,090 | $51,570* | $81,397 | $27,000* | 0.52 | |
| 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 Mississippi, approximately 22% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 174 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.