Computer and Information Sciences at Western Governors University

Western Governors University's Computer and Information Sciences program delivers exceptional national value, with graduates earning $84,242 in their first year—placing this program in the 95th percentile nationally and well above the national median of $61,322. However, the Utah context reveals a more nuanced picture: while still solid, the program ranks in the 60th percentile among Utah's eight computer science programs, trailing top performers like BYU ($80,934) by a modest margin.

The financial fundamentals are strong. With median debt of just $23,167 and a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.28, graduates carry manageable debt loads that represent less than three months of their starting salary. This debt level sits slightly above Utah's state median ($17,996) but remains reasonable given the earning potential. The 12% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests solid career progression, reaching nearly $94,000 by the fourth year.

For families considering this program, WGU offers a compelling value proposition—especially for those prioritizing national competitiveness and debt management. While it may not be Utah's absolute top performer, the combination of high starting salaries, reasonable debt, and WGU's flexible online format makes this a smart investment for students seeking a practical path into tech careers.