Computer and Information Sciences at University of Missouri-Kansas City
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
UMKC's computer science program delivers a reasonable return on investment, though the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could fluctuate significantly year to year. Starting salaries of $61,383 match the national median almost perfectly, but trail Missouri's state median by about $1,500—landing in just the 40th percentile statewide. For context, Missouri's flagship in Columbia sees graduates earning $72,886, while Missouri S&T tops out at $76,869.
The debt picture offers some relief: at $21,670, graduates here borrow about $3,500 less than typical Missouri CS students and roughly $3,300 below the national benchmark. That lower debt load creates a manageable 0.35 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under five months of gross earnings. For families watching every dollar, this lighter debt burden matters even if the starting salary doesn't lead the pack.
The modest 75% admission rate and average SAT of 1230 suggest UMKC serves a broader student population than Missouri's elite tech programs, which may partly explain the earnings gap. If your child is Kansas City-based and wants to minimize both debt and disruption, this program delivers solid entry into tech work. But if they're competitive for Missouri S&T or Mizzou and willing to relocate, those programs show substantially higher earning potential—$11,000 to $15,000 more annually—that could justify modest additional borrowing.
Where University of Missouri-Kansas City 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 Missouri-Kansas City graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Missouri-Kansas City graduates earn $61k, placing them in the 50th percentile of all computer and information sciences bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (26 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Missouri-Kansas City | $61,383 | — | $21,670 | 0.35 |
| Missouri University of Science and Technology | $76,869 | $84,872 | $23,619 | 0.31 |
| Truman State University | $74,794 | $86,551 | $26,000 | 0.35 |
| University of Missouri-Columbia | $72,886 | $79,627 | $21,000 | 0.29 |
| Columbia College | $67,917 | $67,437 | $31,500 | 0.46 |
| Northwest Missouri State University | $65,444 | $77,340 | $22,785 | 0.35 |
| National Median | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Missouri
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Missouri schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Missouri University of Science and Technology Rolla | $14,278 | $76,869 | $23,619 |
| Truman State University Kirksville | $9,470 | $74,794 | $26,000 |
| University of Missouri-Columbia Columbia | $14,130 | $72,886 | $21,000 |
| Columbia College Columbia | $24,326 | $67,917 | $31,500 |
| Northwest Missouri State University Maryville | $10,181 | $65,444 | $22,785 |
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 Missouri-Kansas City, approximately 25% 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 22 graduates with reported earnings and 22 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.