Computer and Information Sciences at University of Missouri-Columbia

Mizzou's computer science program punches well above its weight for a school with a 77% admission rate. Graduates earn $72,886 their first year—substantially more than both the national median ($61,322) and Missouri's median ($62,910)—while carrying just $21,000 in debt. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.29 means students typically owe less than three months' salary, making this one of the more financially sound tech programs you'll find at a public flagship.

Within Missouri, this program trails only Missouri S&T and Truman State in starting salaries, despite Mizzou's considerably less selective admissions. You're getting outcomes comparable to much more competitive programs while preserving the traditional college experience of a large flagship university. The 9% earnings growth to nearly $80,000 by year four suggests solid career progression, and the robust sample size means these aren't just a few outliers driving the numbers.

For families seeking strong tech outcomes without the pressure of ultra-competitive admissions or overwhelming debt loads, this represents an excellent value. Your child gets access to Missouri's largest university network and proven industry connections, with post-graduation earning power that clearly justifies the modest debt burden.