Median Earnings (1yr)
$59,291
45th percentile (40th in AZ)
Median Debt
$41,693
67% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.70
Manageable
Sample Size
1040
Adequate data

Analysis

University of Phoenix-Arizona's Computer Science program delivers solid career outcomes with exceptionally manageable debt, making it a financially smart choice despite modest starting salaries. With median debt of just $41,693—dramatically lower than the national average of $61,322 for similar programs—graduates enter the workforce with significantly less financial burden. While first-year earnings of $59,291 lag slightly behind both national and Arizona medians, the 28% earnings growth to $75,606 by year four demonstrates strong career trajectory potential.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70 is particularly attractive, meaning graduates earn back their entire debt load in less than nine months of work. This puts University of Phoenix graduates in a much stronger position than peers at most other institutions, where typical debt loads are 47% higher. Among Arizona's computer science programs, this ranks in the 40th percentile for earnings but offers substantially better debt management than competitors like ASU or University of Arizona.

For families prioritizing financial security over prestige, this program offers a compelling value proposition. The combination of reasonable debt, steady earnings growth, and strong job market demand in tech makes this a low-risk investment that should provide solid returns, especially for students who might otherwise struggle with higher debt loads at traditional universities.

Where University of Phoenix-Arizona Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally

University of Phoenix-ArizonaOther computer and information sciences programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How University of Phoenix-Arizona graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Phoenix-Arizona graduates earn $59k, placing them in the 45th percentile of all computer and information sciences bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Arizona

Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Arizona (9 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Phoenix-Arizona$59,291$75,606$41,6930.70
Arizona State University Digital Immersion$71,183$87,406$15,3120.22
Arizona State University Campus Immersion$71,183$87,406$15,3120.22
Grand Canyon University$59,500—$29,7500.50
American InterContinental University System$51,687$55,591$45,6060.88
University of Arizona$49,392$69,515$26,0000.53
National Median$61,322—$25,0000.41

Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Arizona

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Arizona schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Arizona State University Digital Immersion
Scottsdale
—$71,183$15,312
Arizona State University Campus Immersion
Tempe
$12,051$71,183$15,312
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix
$17,450$59,500$29,750
American InterContinental University System
Chandler
$12,310$51,687$45,606
University of Arizona
Tucson
$13,626$49,392$26,000

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 Phoenix-Arizona, approximately 45% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 1040 graduates with reported earnings and 1322 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.