Computer and Information Sciences at University of Washington-Tacoma Campus

The University of Washington-Tacoma's Computer Science program delivers exceptional value, combining strong earnings with remarkably low debt. Graduates start at $73,385—placing this program in the 79th percentile nationally and well above the national median of $61,322. More importantly, the median debt of just $16,277 is extraordinarily low, ranking in the 95th percentile nationally (meaning 95% of similar programs saddle students with more debt). This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.22, meaning graduates owe less than three months of their starting salary.

While UW-Tacoma ranks in the 60th percentile among Washington state computer science programs, the debt advantage is striking—students here graduate with roughly $3,000 less debt than the state median. The 40% earnings growth to $102,611 by year four demonstrates strong career trajectory potential. With an 83% admission rate and 40% of students receiving Pell grants, this program serves a diverse population without compromising outcomes.

For parents concerned about college costs, this represents one of the best risk-adjusted investments in computer science education. Your child gets University of Washington credentials, strong starting salaries competitive with the flagship Seattle campus, and minimal debt burden—a combination that's increasingly rare in higher education.