Analysis
Utah's computer engineering programs typically launch graduates into strong starting salaries, and the estimated $88,785 for this program aligns with what peers across the state report—matching outcomes at Brigham Young and running just ahead of the $79,000 national median. That's a solid foundation for repaying the estimated $23,125 in debt, which translates to a manageable 0.26 debt-to-earnings ratio.
The caveat here is meaningful: these figures come from comparable programs in Utah rather than verified outcomes from Utah State specifically. Still, the consistency across state programs—where all three reporting schools cluster between $85,000 and $90,000—suggests reasonable stability in this market. Computer engineering graduates in Utah appear to benefit from a strong regional tech sector that values this credential. The estimated debt load sits slightly below the national median of $24,500, which helps the math work even if actual outcomes vary somewhat from these projections.
For parents weighing this investment, the fundamentals look sound. A debt-to-earnings ratio under 0.30 and first-year earnings that substantially exceed national averages create meaningful financial breathing room. Utah State's accessible admissions (94% acceptance rate) may particularly appeal to students who want engineering credentials without the pressure-cooker environment of more selective programs. Just remember these are educated estimates based on peer programs—the actual outcomes may differ when more graduates enter the workforce and the school can report its own data.
Where Utah State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Utah
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Utah (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,228 | $88,785* | — | $23,125* | — | |
| $9,315 | $89,605* | — | $19,375* | 0.22 | |
| $6,496 | $88,785* | $127,592 | $10,750* | 0.12 | |
| $6,270 | $85,564* | $91,846 | $14,563* | 0.17 | |
| National Median | — | $78,952* | — | $24,500* | 0.31 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer engineering graduates
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Computer Hardware Engineers
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Engineering Teachers, Postsecondary
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 Utah State University, approximately 26% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in UT. Actual outcomes may vary.