Analysis
Computer science degrees in Utah typically produce strong first-year earnings, and Westminster's estimated $74,865 aligns with the state median—substantially higher than the $61,322 national benchmark. This puts the program on par with Weber State and ahead of most national peers, though below Utah's powerhouses like Western Governors ($84,242) and BYU ($80,934). The estimated $25,860 in debt, however, sits above Utah's typical $17,996 for this field, reflecting Westminster's private school premium.
That debt level creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35, meaning graduates from similar programs could reasonably expect to pay off loans within a few years if they match these earnings. The bigger question is value: you're potentially paying about $8,000 more in debt than at comparable Utah public programs for similar entry-level outcomes. Westminster's 69% admission rate and solid SAT averages suggest a respectable academic environment, but the financial advantage isn't obvious from these peer-program estimates.
For anxious parents, the practical takeaway is this: Westminster's computer science program appears positioned in the middle of Utah's competitive landscape, where even mid-tier outcomes beat national averages. If your student has admission to Western Governors or BYU—where reported data shows higher earnings—those warrant serious consideration. Otherwise, Westminster looks like a reasonable but not exceptional investment, assuming actual outcomes align with these state estimates.
Where Westminster University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all computer and information sciences bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Utah
Computer and Information Sciences bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Utah (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $41,416 | $74,865* | — | $25,860* | — | |
| $8,300 | $84,242* | $93,944 | $23,167* | 0.28 | |
| $6,496 | $80,934* | $102,563 | $14,250* | 0.18 | |
| $6,391 | $74,865* | $77,800 | $12,250* | 0.16 | |
| $9,228 | $71,335* | $91,862 | $17,996* | 0.25 | |
| $6,074 | $46,382* | $81,192 | $20,944* | 0.45 | |
| National Median | — | $61,322* | — | $25,000* | 0.41 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with computer and information sciences graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Computer Network Architects
Telecommunications Engineering Specialists
Information Security Analysts
Database Administrators
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Data Scientists
Business Intelligence Analysts
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 Westminster University, approximately 25% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 5 similar programs in UT. Actual outcomes may vary.