Computer Science at University of Northern Iowa

University of Northern Iowa's computer science graduates earn below the middle of the pack in Iowa, landing at the 40th percentile statewide despite the program's relatively low cost. Starting at $66K, graduates trail the state median by $5,000 and sit well behind Iowa State ($79K) and even elite liberal arts programs like Grinnell ($84K). The positive spin: earnings climb 22% to reach $80K by year four, eventually catching up to where many peers start.

The debt picture offers some consolation. At $26,200, borrowers take on slightly more than the state median but still maintain a manageable 0.4 debt-to-earnings ratio—meaning graduates owe less than half their first-year salary. For families choosing between UNI and pricier alternatives, the $26K debt load beats taking on significantly more for a marginally better starting salary elsewhere in Iowa.

This program makes the most sense for students who value UNI's 94% admission rate and need an accessible entry point into tech careers. You're trading initial earning power for affordability and the security of strong four-year growth. If your student can secure admission to Iowa State or has the profile for Grinnell, those programs deliver notably stronger early earnings. But for families prioritizing low debt and steady career trajectory over peak starting salary, UNI's combination works—just recognize you're choosing the economical path, not the high-earning one.