Computer Science at University of North Carolina at Pembroke

UNC Pembroke's Computer Science program shows an unusual earnings trajectory that demands careful consideration, especially given the limited data. Graduates start at just $38,417—less than half the national median and roughly 43% below North Carolina's typical CS starting salary. However, by year four, earnings jump dramatically to $82,447, surpassing both state and national medians. This 115% growth rate is remarkable, but with fewer than 30 graduates in the sample, it's impossible to know whether this pattern is reliable or represents a few exceptional outcomes.

The concerning reality is that first-year earnings rank in the bottom 10% statewide—significantly trailing not just elite programs like Duke and UNC Chapel Hill, but also North Carolina A&T and NC State by substantial margins. The $27,000 debt load is manageable relative to that eventual four-year salary, but that first year could be financially challenging. For a program at an institution serving 48% Pell-eligible students, those initial low earnings matter: graduates may struggle with immediate loan payments even if prospects improve later.

The small sample size is the critical caveat here. If your child is considering this program, they should request more detailed outcomes data directly from the university and speak with recent alumni about actual career paths. Given how far these numbers fall below state norms initially, this appears high-risk unless you can verify that the four-year earnings growth is consistent and not just a statistical anomaly.