Analysis
The projected debt load here is troubling. Based on the handful of similar Texas schools reporting data, Wade College graduates might carry roughly $45,600 in debtβnearly double the state median of $23,250 for computer science bachelor's programs. That's a heavy burden even with tech sector salaries, particularly when serving a student body where 68% receive Pell grants.
The earnings picture offers some reassurance but demands perspective. First-year earnings around $55,000 align with the Texas median for this degree, which is respectable entry-level tech money. However, Texas produces a wide range of outcomes in computer science: UT Austin grads average $111,000 their first year, while this program tracks closer to the state median. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.83 suggests manageable repayment is possible, but only if those estimated earnings hold true and your child secures steady tech employment right away.
The core problem is uncertainty. With no reported outcomes from Wade College itself, you're betting on estimates drawn from peer institutions. If their actual placement and employer connections don't match those comparables, that $45,600 debt becomes harder to justify. Before committing, demand concrete evidence: employment rates, actual starting salaries for recent grads, and where their computer science alumni work. Without that transparency, the high debt makes this a risky proposition compared to programs with proven track records.
Where Wade College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (59 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $17,692 | $55,172* | β | $45,606* | β | |
| $58,128 | $131,154* | $172,391 | $12,381* | 0.09 | |
| $11,678 | $111,587* | $112,017 | $20,500* | 0.18 | |
| $11,852 | $82,521* | $91,795 | $23,197* | 0.28 | |
| $13,099 | $81,231* | $101,263 | $20,395* | 0.25 | |
| $11,299 | $77,763* | $80,128 | $28,064* | 0.36 | |
| National Median | β | $61,322* | β | $25,000* | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer and information sciences graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
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 Wade College, approximately 68% 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 35 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.