Median Earnings (1yr)
$73,385
79th percentile (60th in WA)
Median Debt
$16,277
35% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.22
Manageable
Sample Size
569
Adequate data

Analysis

UW-Bothell's Computer Science program delivers exceptional value that most parents overlook. With graduates earning $73,385 in their first year and $102,611 by year four, this program significantly outperforms the national median ($61,322) and ranks in the 79th percentile nationally. The 40% earnings growth over four years demonstrates strong career trajectory potential. Most importantly, students graduate with just $16,277 in debt—dramatically lower than both the national median ($25,000) and Washington state median ($19,333) for this field.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.22 is outstanding, meaning graduates can realistically pay off their loans in about three months of gross salary. This puts UW-Bothell in the 95th percentile nationally for low debt burden. While the program ranks at the 60th percentile within Washington state (where tech salaries run high), it still matches the earnings of UW's flagship Seattle campus while maintaining much lower debt levels and a 92% admission rate.

For families concerned about college costs and career outcomes, this program offers a rare combination of accessible admission, minimal debt, and strong earning potential. Your child gets University of Washington credentials and tech industry access at a fraction of the typical cost burden.

Where University of Washington-Bothell Campus Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally

University of Washington-Bothell CampusOther computer and information sciences programs

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 Washington-Bothell Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of Washington-Bothell Campus graduates earn $73k, placing them in the 79th percentile of all computer and information sciences bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Washington

Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Washington (18 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of Washington-Bothell Campus$73,385$102,611$16,2770.22
Pacific Lutheran University$78,055$102,752$23,5340.30
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus$73,385$102,611$16,2770.22
University of Washington-Seattle Campus$73,385$102,611$16,2770.22
Western Washington University$68,219$107,521$19,3330.28
Eastern Washington University$67,004$84,822$25,8680.39
National Median$61,322—$25,0000.41

Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Washington

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Washington schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Pacific Lutheran University
Tacoma
$50,964$78,055$23,534
University of Washington-Tacoma Campus
Tacoma
$12,817$73,385$16,277
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle
$12,643$73,385$16,277
Western Washington University
Bellingham
$9,286$68,219$19,333
Eastern Washington University
Cheney
$8,353$67,004$25,868

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 Washington-Bothell Campus, approximately 28% 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 569 graduates with reported earnings and 411 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.