Computer Science at University of Tulsa
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
With a relatively small computer science program, University of Tulsa graduates enter the workforce earning $73,787—above both the national median and right at Oklahoma's state median. This middle-of-the-road performance comes with a significant advantage: graduates leave with just $21,500 in debt, resulting in a 0.29 debt-to-earnings ratio that makes the financial math work clearly in students' favor. The first-year salary covers the entire debt load more than three times over.
The question is whether families should pay private school tuition for outcomes that trail the University of Oklahoma by about $5,000 annually. TU's higher admission standards (1325 SAT average) and smaller program size might appeal to students seeking a more intimate learning environment, but the earnings premium doesn't materialize compared to OU's flagship program. However, if scholarships bring TU's net price close to public school levels, the managed debt load becomes a real strength.
One important caveat: this data reflects fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary considerably. For families who can afford it without excessive borrowing, TU offers solid computer science preparation. Just ensure the final cost after aid makes sense given that nearby options deliver similar or better outcomes.
Where University of Tulsa Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer science bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of Tulsa graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Tulsa graduates earn $74k, placing them in the 57th percentile of all computer science bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in Oklahoma
Computer Science bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oklahoma (7 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Tulsa | $73,787 | — | $21,500 | 0.29 |
| University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus | $78,610 | $99,645 | $24,251 | 0.31 |
| Oklahoma Christian University | $61,272 | — | — | — |
| National Median | $70,950 | — | $23,374 | 0.33 |
Other Computer Science Programs in Oklahoma
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Oklahoma schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus Norman | $9,595 | $78,610 | $24,251 |
| Oklahoma Christian University Edmond | $25,900 | $61,272 | — |
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.
Sample Size: Based on 25 graduates with reported earnings and 31 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.