Computer and Information Sciences at University of Rhode Island

URI's computer science program turns in solid numbers that look even better when you track the career trajectory. Starting at $67,736—already above the national median of $61,322—graduates see their earnings jump 46% to nearly $99,000 by year four. That kind of momentum matters more than the modest first-year advantage, especially when you're graduating with just $21,750 in debt.

The debt picture deserves attention here. While URI's debt load sits below both the national median ($25,000) and many peer programs, the 73rd percentile ranking nationally means there are cheaper paths to a CS degree. However, the 0.32 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable—graduates earn roughly three times their debt burden right out of school, a threshold that makes monthly payments reasonable even in expensive housing markets like Boston or Providence.

Within Rhode Island's limited landscape of five CS programs, URI lands at the 60th percentile for earnings, essentially at the state median. For families considering URI's 77% admission rate and in-state tuition, this program offers a practical route into tech without the pressure of highly selective alternatives. The real value shows up in that four-year earnings jump, suggesting graduates land roles with genuine advancement potential rather than dead-end positions. If your student can handle the coursework and wants to stay in the Northeast, this program delivers both accessibility and upward mobility.