Computer Science at University of Rochester

University of Rochester's computer science program punches well above its weight, delivering early-career earnings of nearly $100,000—40% higher than the typical computer science graduate nationwide and substantially above New York's state median. Among the 46 New York programs, this ranks in the 80th percentile, trailing only elite research universities like Cornell and Columbia while handily outperforming more specialized tech schools like RIT. The $136,559 median at year four represents impressive 37% growth, suggesting graduates move into senior engineering roles or high-growth startups rather than plateauing early.

The debt picture makes this particularly compelling: at $19,000, graduates owe just 19% of their first-year salary—meaning most could theoretically pay off loans in a single year if they prioritized it aggressively. This debt level sits below both state and national medians for computer science programs, despite Rochester's selective admissions and research university status.

For families weighing this against SUNY options or peer private universities, the value equation is clear. You're getting near-Ivy earning power at a fraction of Cornell's debt burden, with outcomes that rival schools with stronger tech reputations. The moderate sample size is worth noting, but the data shows Rochester successfully places computer science graduates into high-paying roles while keeping debt manageable—a rare combination among private research universities.