Analysis
USF's computer engineering program positions graduates for immediate financial success, with first-year earnings of $83,660—significantly above both the state median ($75,210) and national average ($78,952). At the 60th percentile among Florida programs, it trails only UF among the state's major research universities while maintaining remarkably low debt levels. The $27,250 median debt translates to just 33 cents owed per dollar earned, one of the best debt positions in the field nationally.
The moderate earnings growth to $87,402 by year four suggests graduates secure strong positions early but may need to be proactive about advancement opportunities. This pattern is common in engineering fields where initial placements are solid but long-term trajectories depend heavily on career choices and continuing education. Still, even at year four, graduates earn well above what most Florida computer engineering programs deliver at any point.
For in-state students particularly, this represents exceptional value: you're getting near-flagship earnings outcomes at a fraction of the typical engineering program debt load. The combination of strong starting salaries and minimal borrowing means graduates have genuine financial flexibility right out of college—whether that's saving for a home, pursuing graduate education, or simply avoiding years of aggressive loan repayment.
Where University of South Florida Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of South Florida 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 South Florida | $83,660 | $87,402 | +4% |
| University of Florida | $87,949 | $100,248 | +14% |
| Florida Gulf Coast University | $60,746 | $96,155 | +58% |
| Florida State University | $78,941 | $94,745 | +20% |
| Florida Institute of Technology | $79,244 | $90,773 | +15% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (20 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,410 | $83,660 | $87,402 | $27,250 | 0.33 | |
| $6,381 | $87,949 | $100,248 | $22,562 | 0.26 | |
| $42,304 | $79,276 | $88,652 | $26,146 | 0.33 | |
| $44,360 | $79,244 | $90,773 | $25,125 | 0.32 | |
| $5,656 | $78,941 | $94,745 | $23,346 | 0.30 | |
| $6,368 | $76,819 | $82,542 | $23,000 | 0.30 | |
| National Median | — | $78,952 | — | $24,500 | 0.31 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Computer Hardware Engineers
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
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 South Florida, approximately 30% 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 57 graduates with reported earnings and 41 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.