Computer Engineering at West Virginia University Institute of Technology
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
West Virginia University Institute of Technology's Computer Engineering program produces graduates who earn slightly less than the national median but outperform most other West Virginia options—ranking in the 60th percentile statewide. First-year graduates earn $76,314, climbing to $81,690 by year four, while the national benchmark sits at $78,952. The debt load of $24,500 translates to a manageable 0.32 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates typically owe less than four months of their first year's salary.
The real story here is market positioning. Computer engineering graduates generally command strong salaries regardless of where they study, and WVU Tech delivers competitive outcomes at a reasonable price point. The 7% earnings growth over four years suggests steady career progression, though the program's 41st percentile national ranking indicates graduates may face tougher competition for the highest-paying positions compared to peers from more selective engineering schools.
For West Virginia families, this program offers solid value—particularly given the modest debt burden and respectable in-state standing. The combination of immediate earning power and manageable loan payments creates a viable pathway into a stable profession, even if it doesn't quite reach the top tier of computer engineering programs nationally.
Where West Virginia University Institute of Technology Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer engineering bachelors's programs nationally
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 West Virginia University Institute of Technology graduates compare to all programs nationally
West Virginia University Institute of Technology graduates earn $76k, placing them in the 41th percentile of all computer engineering 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 West Virginia
Computer Engineering bachelors's programs at peer institutions in West Virginia (3 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia University Institute of Technology | $76,314 | $81,690 | $24,500 | 0.32 |
| West Virginia University | $76,314 | $81,690 | $24,500 | 0.32 |
| National Median | $78,952 | — | $24,500 | 0.31 |
Other Computer Engineering Programs in West Virginia
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across West Virginia schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia University Morgantown | $9,648 | $76,314 | $24,500 |
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 West Virginia University Institute of Technology, approximately 24% 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 46 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.