Computer and Information Sciences at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Virginia Tech's computer science graduates command salaries that dwarf both state and national norms—$96,432 right out of the gate, 41% above Virginia's median and 57% above the national average for this degree. Only UVA edges past Tech among Virginia schools, while 95% of comparable programs nationwide produce lower earners. The $20,500 median debt sits comfortably below what most schools charge, yielding a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.21 that means graduates owe roughly 10 weeks of their starting salary. By year four, earnings climb to $116,372, representing robust growth that suggests graduates are advancing into senior roles rather than hitting early ceilings.

The combination of elite outcomes and a 57% admission rate makes this genuinely accessible high-value education. While Tech graduates carry slightly less debt than the Virginia median, they're earning significantly more—a worthwhile tradeoff that many families chase but few find at a public institution price point. The robust sample size confirms these aren't outliers but consistent results from a well-established program.

For families weighing Virginia options, Tech delivers near-UVA outcomes at a more accessible admission threshold. The trajectory here is straightforward: strong starting salaries that grow meaningfully, manageable debt, and a degree that clearly signals quality to employers willing to pay for it.