Computer and Information Sciences at Western Washington University

Western Washington's computer science graduates see remarkable income growth, jumping from $68,000 to over $107,000 within four years—a 58% increase that puts most CS programs to shame. The starting salary already beats the national median by $7,000, and by year four, these graduates are earning comfortably into six figures. With just $19,333 in debt (less than three months of their first-year salary), this represents one of the better debt-to-earnings ratios you'll find in tech education.

The catch? Within Washington state, this program sits at the 40th percentile, meaning other state schools—particularly the University of Washington campuses—produce higher-earning graduates right out of the gate. Still, that income trajectory suggests Western grads catch up quickly, likely moving into similar roles after gaining experience. The 91% admission rate makes this considerably more accessible than UW's competitive programs, potentially offering a backdoor into the same career outcomes without the stress of a lottery-style admissions process.

For families weighing affordability against earning potential, this hits a sweet spot: modest debt, strong national performance, and exceptional income growth that compensates for a slower start compared to elite state programs. If your student can get into UW, that may edge ahead, but Western delivers solid tech career outcomes at manageable cost.