Computer Science at University of North Carolina at Charlotte

UNC Charlotte's computer science program offers solid value with reasonable debt levels, but the earnings lag behind what you'd expect from a strong CS program. While graduates start at $67,704—slightly below the national median of $70,950—they see healthy 22% growth to $82,583 by year four. The debt load of $23,250 is manageable, creating a favorable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.34.

The program's positioning tells an interesting story: it ranks in the 60th percentile among North Carolina CS programs but only the 42nd percentile nationally. This suggests UNC Charlotte performs reasonably well within the state but faces tougher competition nationwide. When you consider that top NC programs like Duke ($133,356) and UNC Chapel Hill ($90,293) command significantly higher starting salaries, the gap becomes more apparent.

For an accessible program with an 80% admission rate, these outcomes are respectable but not exceptional. Your child will graduate with manageable debt and enter a high-demand field, but they shouldn't expect the premium salaries that CS graduates often enjoy elsewhere. If your child can gain admission to NC State or UNC Chapel Hill, those programs offer notably better earning potential. However, if UNC Charlotte is the most realistic option, the program provides a solid foundation in CS with financial outcomes that won't burden your family with excessive debt.