Computer Science at University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus

Computer Science graduates from OU-Norman are landing solidly above both national and state medians, with first-year earnings of $78,610 placing them in the 69th percentile nationally. While that's a strong starting position, the more impressive story is what happens next: earnings jump 27% to nearly $100,000 by year four. In Oklahoma's limited CS landscape (just 7 programs), OU holds the middle ground—trailing only Tulsa but substantially ahead of smaller competitors like Oklahoma Christian ($61,272).

The debt picture here is remarkably manageable. At $24,251, graduates carry slightly more than the state median but far less than their first-year salary, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31—meaning they could theoretically pay off their loans in under four months of gross income. This is one of the better CS debt-to-earnings ratios you'll find, particularly at a large public university with a 77% admission rate that maintains accessibility while delivering outcomes.

For Oklahoma families, OU represents the state's flagship option for computer science without the premium cost structure of private alternatives. The earnings trajectory suggests graduates are moving into more senior technical roles rather than stalling at entry-level positions. Given the reasonable debt load and strong earning potential, this program offers a clear path to tech careers without requiring Ivy League selectivity or private school tuition.