Computer and Information Sciences at University of Redlands

Based on comparable computer science programs across California, University of Redlands graduates likely earn around $54,000 in their first year—significantly below the national median of $61,000 and trailing far behind the state's top programs. While UCLA and UC Berkeley produce graduates earning $136,000 and $88,000 respectively, even smaller private schools like Westmont College show first-year earnings of $83,000. The estimated $25,000 in debt sits at the state median, but the earnings gap means Redlands students may face a longer payoff period than peers at better-performing California programs.

The 0.46 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within reasonable bounds, suggesting graduates can manage their loans on a tech salary. However, computer science is one of the few fields where program quality directly impacts starting compensation—employers pay premium salaries for graduates from schools with stronger technical reputations. At an 81% admission rate, Redlands offers accessible entry into tech, but the earnings data from peer programs suggests graduates may start at smaller companies or non-technical roles rather than the high-paying positions available to graduates from more competitive programs.

For parents, the key question is whether Redlands provides enough value-add to justify its private school price tag when California's public universities—with their superior tech industry connections—produce dramatically better outcomes. If your student can gain admission to a UC or even a Cal State program, the earnings difference could mean tens of thousands more in first-year salary alone.