Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 suggests a manageable financial starting point for this degree—based on comparable computer engineering programs nationally, graduates typically earn around $79,000 in their first year against roughly $26,000 in debt. That's the kind of ratio that makes loan repayment feasible even with entry-level tech salaries, though these figures reflect peer programs rather than University of Tulsa's specific outcomes.
What's worth noting is how this program appears positioned relative to Oklahoma's market. While similar programs in the state typically produce first-year earnings around $72,000, the national benchmark sits closer to $79,000—suggesting computer engineering graduates often find opportunities beyond Oklahoma's borders. The University's selectivity (58% admission rate, 1325 average SAT) indicates a reasonably competitive student body, which matters in engineering where rigor directly impacts job readiness.
The challenge is straightforward: without school-specific data, you're making an investment based on what similar programs deliver elsewhere. If your child is likely to stay in Oklahoma, where peer programs show earnings in the low-$70,000s, the debt load still works mathematically. But the real test is whether University of Tulsa's specific engineering curriculum, industry connections, and career support justify tuition when you can't verify their actual graduate outcomes. Request placement data and employer relationships directly from the department before committing.
Where University of Tulsa Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $48,602 | $78,953* | — | $26,146* | — | |
| $10,234 | $72,820* | — | $23,000* | 0.32 | |
| $9,595 | $70,904* | — | $22,767* | 0.32 | |
| 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 Tulsa, approximately 26% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 174 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.