Analysis
This University of Phoenix-Hawaii computer science program delivers solid earnings growth but comes with concerning debt levels that demand careful consideration. While graduates start slightly below the national average at $59,291, they experience strong 28% earnings growth by year four, reaching $75,606βwell above both national and Hawaii medians. Among Hawaii's limited computer science options, this program ranks in the 60th percentile for earnings, actually outperforming the prestigious University of Hawaii at Manoa.
However, the debt picture is problematic. At $41,693, student debt is 67% higher than the national average and ranks in the 95th percentile nationallyβmeaning 95% of similar programs nationwide have lower debt burdens. This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.70, which while manageable, is higher than ideal for a field known for strong job prospects.
The bottom line: if your child can access this program at a lower cost (through scholarships, employer assistance, or in-state tuition advantages), the earnings trajectory makes it worthwhile. But at full price, the debt burden significantly erodes the program's value compared to more affordable alternatives. With only four computer science programs in Hawaii, geographic constraints may justify the premium, but explore all financial aid options first.
Where University of Phoenix-Hawaii Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Phoenix-Hawaii 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-Hawaii | $59,291 | $75,606 | +28% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $146,204 | $246,946 | +69% |
| Yale University | $133,293 | $203,685 | +53% |
| Rice University | $131,154 | $172,391 | +31% |
| University of Hawaii at Manoa | $57,207 | $71,292 | +25% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Hawaii
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Hawaii (4 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| β | $59,291 | $75,606 | $41,693 | 0.70 | |
| $12,186 | $57,207 | $71,292 | β | β | |
| 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-Hawaii, approximately 13% 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.