Computer and Information Sciences at Westminster College

Computer science programs across Missouri show a wide performance gap, and Westminster's estimated outcomes land squarely in the middle of the pack. Drawing from comparable programs in the state, first-year earnings around $63,000 align precisely with Missouri's median for this degree—respectable but trailing the state's top performers like Missouri S&T ($77,000) and Truman State ($75,000) by $10,000-plus annually.

The estimated $31,000 debt load exceeds both the state and national medians for computer science bachelor's programs by roughly $6,000. While the 0.50 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests manageable repayment—you're looking at monthly payments around $350 on a standard plan—that calculation assumes your child lands a typical first-year position. Technology hiring can be volatile, and smaller liberal arts colleges like Westminster may not have the corporate recruiting pipelines or alumni networks that larger tech-focused universities leverage.

Here's the practical concern: if your child could gain admission to one of Missouri's stronger computer science programs (and with a 78% acceptance rate, Westminster isn't particularly selective), those schools deliver similar or better earnings with less debt. Unless Westminster offers something compelling beyond the degree itself—specific faculty mentorship, a preferred campus culture, or guaranteed opportunities you can verify—peer programs suggest you'd be paying a premium without a clear return advantage.