Computer and Information Sciences at University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point

UW-Stevens Point's computer science program produces below-average outcomes for Wisconsin, landing in the 40th percentile statewide—a significant concern given that the state median ($68,711) substantially exceeds national benchmarks. While the $59,680 starting salary sits near the national median, it trails in-state alternatives by $9,000 to $21,000. Among the state's 20 CS programs, this ranks toward the bottom half despite the school's 90% admission rate making it accessible.

The debt picture offers some compensation: at $27,000, graduates carry just slightly more than typical for this field, yielding a manageable 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio. Strong 23% earnings growth to $73,126 by year four helps close the gap with Wisconsin competitors, though graduates still fall behind peers from UW-Madison or UW-Eau Claire who started with higher trajectories. For families prioritizing affordability and access, these numbers aren't catastrophic—graduates can reasonably service their debt and see meaningful salary progression.

The question is whether accepting below-median outcomes makes sense when other UW system schools deliver stronger returns at similar price points. If Stevens Point offers specific advantages—location, culture, or guaranteed admission—the financial tradeoff might be worthwhile. But purely on earnings potential within Wisconsin's tech sector, this program underperforms readily available alternatives without offering substantial debt savings to justify the gap.