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 $41,693βdramatically lower than the national average of $61,322 for similar programsβgraduates 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
Earnings Distribution
How University of Phoenix-Arizona graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Phoenix-Arizona | $59,291 | $75,606 | +28% |
| Arizona State University Digital Immersion | $71,183 | $87,406 | +23% |
| Arizona State University Campus Immersion | $71,183 | $87,406 | +23% |
| University of Arizona | $49,392 | $69,515 | +41% |
| American InterContinental University System | $51,687 | $55,591 | +8% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Arizona
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Arizona (9 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,552 | $59,291 | $75,606 | $41,693 | 0.70 | |
| β | $71,183 | $87,406 | $15,312 | 0.22 | |
| $12,051 | $71,183 | $87,406 | $15,312 | 0.22 | |
| $17,450 | $59,500 | β | $29,750 | 0.50 | |
| $12,310 | $51,687 | $55,591 | $45,606 | 0.88 | |
| $13,626 | $49,392 | $69,515 | $26,000 | 0.53 | |
| National Median | β | $61,322 | β | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer and information sciences graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
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.