Computer and Information Sciences at University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
The University of Washington-Seattle's Computer Science program delivers exceptional value, combining strong earning potential with remarkably low debt. With first-year earnings of $73,385 and just $16,277 in median debt, graduates enter the workforce with a debt-to-earnings ratio of only 0.22—meaning they could theoretically pay off their loans in about three months of salary. This represents outstanding financial positioning compared to the national median debt of $25,000 for similar programs.
While the program ranks in the 79th percentile nationally for earnings, it sits at the 60th percentile among Washington state programs, suggesting solid but not exceptional performance within the competitive local tech market. However, the extraordinarily low debt (5th percentile nationally) more than compensates for this. The 40% earnings growth from year 1 to year 4, reaching $102,611, demonstrates strong career trajectory potential in Seattle's robust tech ecosystem.
For families concerned about college costs, this program offers an ideal combination: access to Seattle's thriving tech industry, strong earning potential that outpaces national averages, and minimal debt burden. The low debt levels likely reflect in-state tuition advantages and the university's strong financial aid, making this an excellent investment for Washington residents seeking a computer science degree.
Where University of Washington-Seattle Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences 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 Washington-Seattle Campus graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Washington-Seattle 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)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Washington-Seattle Campus | $73,385 | $102,611 | $16,277 | 0.22 |
| Pacific Lutheran University | $78,055 | $102,752 | $23,534 | 0.30 |
| University of Washington-Tacoma Campus | $73,385 | $102,611 | $16,277 | 0.22 |
| University of Washington-Bothell Campus | $73,385 | $102,611 | $16,277 | 0.22 |
| Western Washington University | $68,219 | $107,521 | $19,333 | 0.28 |
| Eastern Washington University | $67,004 | $84,822 | $25,868 | 0.39 |
| National Median | $61,322 | — | $25,000 | 0.41 |
Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Washington
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Washington schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (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-Bothell Campus Bothell | $12,559 | $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-Seattle Campus, approximately 15% 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.