Computer Science at University of Washington-Seattle Campus

UW-Seattle's Computer Science program represents one of the strongest undergraduate values in the country. Its graduates earn $128,887 in their first year—nearly double the national median for CS programs and 65% more than Washington's already-strong state median. Among the 739 schools offering this program nationwide, UW ranks in the 95th percentile for earnings while charging roughly 31% less debt than the typical CS program. That combination—elite outcomes at below-average borrowing—is exceptionally rare.

The numbers get even better with time. Four years out, median earnings climb to $144,297, suggesting graduates secure positions at top-tier tech firms where compensation accelerates quickly. With just $16,118 in median debt, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.13 means most graduates clear their loans in a matter of months. For comparison, Washington's second-highest earning CS program, Seattle University, produces graduates earning $43,602 less in year one while charging similar debt.

At 43% admission, this isn't an impossible reach for strong students. The real question isn't whether this program delivers value—it clearly does—but whether your child can gain admission and handle the rigor. If they can get in, this is the kind of investment that pays for itself before their first holiday season in the workforce.