Computer Science at Winston-Salem State University

Winston-Salem State's computer science graduates earn roughly $17,000 less than the state median and $20,000 below the national average for CS majors. At just the 25th percentile among North Carolina's 24 CS programs, this means three-quarters of the state's computer science programs produce better-earning graduates. For context, nearby NC A&T State—another HBCU—sees graduates earning $81,174, nearly $30,000 more annually. The earnings gap compounds over time: even four years out, WSSU graduates earn $59,761 versus the state median that starts higher.

The silver lining is manageable debt. At $30,721, it's higher than the state median but still represents just 60% of first-year earnings—a reasonable ratio that keeps monthly payments feasible. The program also serves a high-need population (61% receive Pell grants), providing access to students who might otherwise lack opportunities in tech.

However, the small sample size here demands caution. With fewer than 30 graduates tracked, these numbers could swing significantly year to year. If your child is set on WSSU for other reasons—perhaps family ties, campus fit, or specific scholarship offers—the debt load won't be crushing. But purely as a CS investment, North Carolina offers substantially stronger alternatives at similar admission selectivity, particularly NC A&T State, which serves a comparable student population with dramatically better outcomes.