Analysis
UVA's Computer Engineering graduates earn $118,232 their first year out—nearly 50% above the Virginia median and ranking in the 80th percentile statewide. That's roughly $31,000 more annually than George Mason or Virginia Tech grads earn from comparable programs. The $16,875 median debt is equally impressive, sitting well below both state and national averages. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.14, most graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under two months of gross salary.
The earnings trajectory strengthens the case: graduates see steady growth to $135,287 by year four, suggesting these positions have real advancement potential rather than hitting early ceilings. While the sample size is moderate, the data aligns with what you'd expect from a highly selective engineering program (17% admission rate, 1488 average SAT). The combination of top-tier starting salaries, minimal debt, and strong earnings growth makes this one of Virginia's best returns on investment for computer engineering.
For families who can secure admission and afford UVA's tuition structure, this program delivers exceptional value. The financial outcomes justify the competitive admissions process—graduates enter the workforce with both high earning power and minimal debt burden.
Where University of Virginia-Main Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Virginia-Main Campus 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 Virginia-Main Campus | $118,232 | $135,287 | +14% |
| University of Washington-Seattle Campus | $141,588 | $168,957 | +19% |
| Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University | $86,636 | $107,350 | +24% |
| George Mason University | $87,466 | $99,351 | +14% |
| Old Dominion University | $70,298 | $96,247 | +37% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Virginia
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of Virginia-Main CampusCharlottesville | $20,986 | $118,232 | $135,287 | $16,875 | 0.14 |
 George Mason UniversityFairfax | $13,815 | $87,466 | $99,351 | $26,697 | 0.31 |
 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityBlacksburg | $15,478 | $86,636 | $107,350 | $26,000 | 0.30 |
 Virginia Commonwealth UniversityRichmond | $16,458 | $82,964 | — | $23,813 | 0.29 |
 Old Dominion UniversityNorfolk | $12,262 | $70,298 | $96,247 | $23,360 | 0.33 |
| 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 Virginia-Main Campus, approximately 14% 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 38 graduates with reported earnings and 34 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.