Analysis
Based on comparable computer science programs in Nebraska, UNO's graduates can expect first-year earnings around $62,000βsquarely in the middle of the state's range but well below what University of Nebraska-Lincoln produces ($78,000). The estimated debt load of $24,000 is notably lower than both state and national medians, which helps offset the moderate earnings picture. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39, graduates would need less than five months of gross income to cover their borrowing, a manageable starting point for a tech career.
The challenge is that we're working with estimates here rather than actual outcomes from UNO's program, so there's meaningful uncertainty about where this specific degree lands. The school's 87% admission rate and 1120 average SAT suggest it serves a broad student population, and one-third of students receive Pell grants. Computer science programs can vary significantly in quality even within the same stateβLincoln's graduates earn 26% more in their first year, suggesting that curriculum rigor, industry connections, or student preparation matter considerably.
For families comfortable with some uncertainty, the fundamentals look reasonable: tech skills generally translate to employment, the debt burden appears modest, and Omaha has a growing tech sector. But parents should recognize they're making this decision based on how similar programs perform rather than proven outcomes from UNO itself. If your student has the academic credentials for Lincoln and can manage similar debt there, that program's track record shows stronger returns.
Where University of Nebraska at Omaha Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Nebraska
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nebraska (9 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,370 | $62,111* | β | $24,105* | β | |
| $10,108 | $78,017* | $86,925 | $20,572* | 0.26 | |
| $40,491 | $63,451* | β | $27,000* | 0.43 | |
| $8,302 | $60,771* | β | β* | β | |
| $8,886 | $60,188* | $68,506 | $29,513* | 0.49 | |
| National Median | β | $61,322* | β | $25,000* | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer and information sciences graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
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 Nebraska at Omaha, approximately 33% 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 median of 4 similar programs in NE. Actual outcomes may vary.