Computer and Information Sciences at Wilberforce University

Wilberforce's computer science program carries an estimated $25,860 in debt—roughly in line with the national median for this credential—but the earnings picture raises questions. Based on Ohio's median for computer science programs, graduates might expect around $49,837 in their first year, which falls nearly $20,000 below the national benchmark of $61,322. That gap is substantial in a field known for strong starting salaries, and it's even more striking when you see that several public universities in Ohio report first-year earnings in the $65,000-$70,000 range for their computer science graduates.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52 suggests manageable repayment on paper, but context matters. Three-quarters of Wilberforce students receive Pell grants, meaning most families are counting on this degree to change their financial trajectory. A computer science credential that produces earnings 20% below what similar programs deliver nationally may not provide the return families are banking on, particularly when stronger-performing alternatives exist within Ohio's public system. The university's 53% admission rate and lower average SAT scores might signal different academic preparation, but in tech fields where employers focus heavily on skills and portfolio work, the earnings gap deserves scrutiny.

Given the estimation uncertainty and the notable difference between state-level expectations and what top Ohio programs actually deliver, families should investigate Wilberforce's specific placement outcomes, employer relationships, and whether graduates secure positions commensurate with the field's earning potential before committing.