Median Earnings (1yr)
$100,644
95th percentile (80th in MA)
Median Debt
$13,350
47% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.13
Manageable
Sample Size
41
Adequate data

Analysis

Wellesley's computer science program outperforms nearly every other program in Massachusetts while keeping debt remarkably low—a rare combination for an elite liberal arts college. Starting at over $100,000, graduates earn 39% more than the state median and significantly more than well-regarded programs at Bentley or UMass-Dartmouth. At 80th percentile in Massachusetts, it trails only Northeastern's tech-focused programs. The $13,350 median debt is less than half what students typically borrow for CS degrees in the state, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.13—among the best in the nation.

The earnings trajectory looks strong, with 31% growth to $132,000 by year four, suggesting graduates successfully transition into senior technical roles or competitive tech markets. This makes sense given Wellesley's highly selective admissions (14% acceptance rate) and strong academic profile, which likely translates to excellent recruiting opportunities with top-tier tech employers.

For families considering a women's college for computer science, these numbers make a compelling case. You're looking at top-5% national outcomes with minimal debt burden, positioning graduates to aggressively save, invest, or pursue graduate education without financial strain. The premium over other Massachusetts options—nearly $30,000 more than state median—easily justifies the investment, particularly with Wellesley's low debt loads.

Where Wellesley College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally

Wellesley CollegeOther computer and information sciences programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Wellesley College graduates compare to all programs nationally

Wellesley College graduates earn $101k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all computer and information sciences bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts

Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (24 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Wellesley College$100,644$132,277$13,3500.13
Northeastern University Professional Programs$115,587$132,227$23,0010.20
Northeastern University$115,587$132,227$23,0010.20
Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts$80,332$93,144$22,5000.28
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth$77,970$90,180$27,0000.35
Bentley University$72,227$100,068$26,0000.36
National Median$61,322—$25,0000.41

Other Computer and Information Sciences Programs in Massachusetts

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Massachusetts schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Northeastern University Professional Programs
Boston
—$115,587$23,001
Northeastern University
Boston
$63,141$115,587$23,001
Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts
North Adams
$11,884$80,332$22,500
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth
North Dartmouth
$15,208$77,970$27,000
Bentley University
Waltham
$58,150$72,227$26,000

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 Wellesley College, approximately 21% 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.

Sample Size: Based on 41 graduates with reported earnings and 32 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.