Computer Programming graduates earn $83,439 four years out. Related careers are growing at up to 15.8%, one of the stronger demand signals across all fields. Software Developer is among the highest-growth roles in the field.
Computer Programming is a focused area of study within Computer Science. Graduates typically earn around $83,439 four years out, a strong return for a focused credential. The program is available at 628 colleges across the U.S., from community colleges to research universities. About 12,983 students complete this program each year, most earning a associate's. Coursework leans technical and quantitative, with lab or project work common.
Median Earnings · 1yr
$50,242
Median Earnings · 4yr
$83,439
Colleges Offering
628
Graduates / Year
12,983
Avg Net Price / yr
$12,976
How Much Do Computer Programming Graduates Earn?
Computer Programming graduates earn $83,439 four years out, well above average for college graduates. The middle 50% of earners fall between $54,167 and $114,436. Earnings typically jump significantly in the first few years. The one-year figure of $50,242 climbs to $83,439 by year four.
$50,242
1 Year After Graduation
Starting salaries only. Earnings in this field grow substantially in the first 3 to 5 years.
$83,439
4-Year National Median
Well above average for college graduates.
$78,404
4-Year Institutional Median
Median of per-school medians. Each reporting college counts equally, regardless of size.
Earnings Range
There is a wide earnings spread across Computer Programming graduates. Sector is the biggest factor. Tech companies and finance firms tend to pay significantly more than government, education, or nonprofit employers in this field.
$54,16725th pct.
$83,439Median
$114,43675th pct.
Why This Program Pays Off Fast
Strong ROI. At median 4-year earnings of $83,439 against an estimated $51,904 four-year net cost, most graduates break even against baseline wages in under two years.
Based on outcomes from 113 schools.
Colleges with fewer than 30 graduates are excluded from national averages.
Who Studies This? Credential Breakdown
Of the 12,983 students who complete Computer Programming programs each year, the majority (47%) earn a associate's degree.
The breakdown below shows the full credential distribution.
47%30%
Associate's47%
Bachelor's30%
Certificate15%
What Can You Do With a Computer Programming Degree?
Computer Programming connects to 7 occupations in the job market. Software Developer leads at $135,980/yr median. Expand any card to see daily responsibilities, in-demand skills, and 10-year growth projections.
ProgrammingCritical ThinkingJudgment and Decision MakingReading ComprehensionActive Learning
Day-to-day responsibilities
Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team.
Analyze user needs and software requirements to determine feasibility of design within time and cost constraints.
Develop or direct software system testing or validation procedures, programming, or documentation.
Confer with systems analysts, engineers, programmers and others to design systems and to obtain information on project limitations and capabilities, performance requirements and interfaces.
Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.
Identify, analyze, and document problems with program function, output, online screen, or content.
Document software defects, using a bug tracking system, and report defects to software developers.
Develop testing programs that address areas such as database impacts, software scenarios, regression testing, negative testing, error or bug retests, or usability.
ProgrammingActive ListeningReading ComprehensionCritical ThinkingJudgment and Decision Making
Day-to-day responsibilities
Design digital user interfaces or websites. Develop and test layouts, interfaces, functionality, and navigation menus to ensure compatibility and usability across browsers or devices. May use web framework applications as well as client-side code and processes. May evaluate web design following web and accessibility standards, and may analyze web use metrics and optimize websites for marketability and search engine ranking. May design and test interfaces that facilitate the human-computer interaction and maximize the usability of digital devices, websites, and software with a focus on aesthetics and design. May create graphics used in websites and manage website content and links.
Balance and adjust gameplay experiences to ensure the critical and commercial success of the product.
Devise missions, challenges, or puzzles to be encountered in game play.
Create core game features, including storylines, role-play mechanics, and character biographies for a new video game or game franchise.
ProgrammingActive ListeningCritical ThinkingComplex Problem SolvingQuality Control Analysis
Day-to-day responsibilities
Create, modify, and test the code and scripts that allow computer applications to run. Work from specifications drawn up by software and web developers or other individuals. May develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data, and information.
Write, analyze, review, and rewrite programs, using workflow chart and diagram, and applying knowledge of computer capabilities, subject matter, and symbolic logic.
Correct errors by making appropriate changes and rechecking the program to ensure that the desired results are produced.
Perform or direct revision, repair, or expansion of existing programs to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.
Teach courses in computer science. May specialize in a field of computer science, such as the design and function of computers or operations and research analysis. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.
Prepare course materials, such as syllabi, homework assignments, and handouts.
Compile, administer, and grade examinations or assign this work to others.
Prepare and deliver lectures to undergraduate or graduate students on topics such as programming, data structures, and software design.
ProgrammingCritical ThinkingReading ComprehensionComplex Problem SolvingOperations Analysis
Day-to-day responsibilities
Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.
Write supporting code for Web applications or Web sites.
Design, build, or maintain Web sites, using authoring or scripting languages, content creation tools, management tools, and digital media.
Back up files from Web sites to local directories for instant recovery in case of problems.
Critical ThinkingActive ListeningJudgment and Decision MakingReading ComprehensionComplex Problem Solving
Day-to-day responsibilities
Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption.
Back up network data.
Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals.
Analyze and report computer network security breaches or attempted breaches.
Top Colleges for Computer Programming
The 20 colleges below are ranked by how many Computer Programming students they graduate each year. Scroll right to compare acceptance rate, net price, and median earnings side by side.
Ranked by Computer Programming graduate volume. Scroll right to compare key stats.
Read our methodology →
Related Computer Science Programs
Computer Programming is one of 12 specializations within Computer Science. The comparison below shows where this program ranks by 4-year median earnings.
Decide with data, not guesswork. These tools turn the numbers on this page
into a personal plan. Estimate the real cost of a Computer Programming program, compare colleges side-by-side, weigh the long-term payoff, and find
schools that match your profile.
Strong earnings and positive career growth make Computer Programming a solid option. The 4 strengths and 2 trade-offs below are data-sourced from College Scorecard, BLS, and IPEDS.
PROS
Strong median salaryGraduates earn $83,439 nationally four years out, placing this field above most degree programs in the country.
Strong salary growthMedian earnings climb from $50,242 at graduation to $83,439 four years later, a clear sign of career momentum in this field.
Fast-growing fieldRelated careers are projected to grow up to +15.8% over the next decade, with Software Developer among the fastest-growing roles.
Strong hiring volumeRelated occupations generate more than 162,300 job openings per year combined, creating consistent demand for graduates.
CONS
Advanced degree often expectedTop roles in this field typically expect a master's degree or higher. A bachelor's may be a starting point rather than a terminal credential for the most competitive positions.
Declining roles in some areas1 related career show negative 10-year employment projections. Research specific roles before committing.
Computer Programming graduates earn a national median of $83,439 four years after completing their program. The middle 50% of earners fall between $54,167 and $114,436. Where you land typically depends on employer, role, and location.
What is the starting salary for a Computer Programming degree?
One year after graduation, Computer Programming degree holders earn a median of $50,242. That climbs to $83,439 four years out. The biggest salary jumps typically come once you move past entry-level roles.
What jobs can you get with a Computer Programming degree?
Computer Programming degree holders pursue careers including Software Developer, which pays a median of $135,980/yr. Scroll down to the Career Paths section to see wages and job growth projections for every related occupation.
How long does a Computer Programming program take?
A Computer Programming associate degree typically takes two years full-time at a community college. Many students transfer to a four-year university afterward to complete a bachelor's.
How many colleges offer Computer Programming?
628 colleges and universities in the United States offer Computer Programming programs. Options range from community colleges with certificates and associate degrees to research universities with doctoral tracks.
Is a Computer Programming degree worth it?
With a median 4-year salary of $83,439 and an average net price of roughly $12,976/yr, a Computer Programming degree can pay off well, especially at lower-cost schools and in high-demand roles. Use the Top Colleges section below to compare specific programs before deciding.
What is the difference between Computer Programming and Computer Science?
Computer Programming is a focused concentration within the broader Computer Science field. The Computer Science major covers the full discipline; this program narrows the curriculum to Computer Programming-specific courses, skills, and career tracks. If you already know this is the direction you want, the specialized program gives you a more targeted credential.
What skills do employers look for in Computer Programming graduates?
Employers hiring Computer Programming graduates consistently prioritize analytical thinking, technical proficiency, and data interpretation. Employers typically prioritize candidates who can demonstrate hands-on project or internship experience alongside their coursework.
Is graduate school worth it for Computer Programming graduates?
In STEM fields, a master's degree can accelerate advancement into research, leadership, or senior engineering roles and often adds $15,000 to $40,000 in long-term earning potential, depending on specialization. The right answer depends on your career goals, program cost, and whether your target role explicitly rewards an advanced credential.
What is the job outlook for Computer Programming graduates?
The job outlook for Computer Programming graduates is moderate overall. Related occupations project an average of +5.9% job growth over the next 10 years. Software Developer is among the strongest-growth roles at +15.8%. Growth varies by role and location, so check the Career Paths section for projections on each specific occupation.
Related Computer Science Programs
Other programs in Computer Science. Compare earnings, credentials, and career paths before committing to a specialization.
Free, data-backed guides to help you decide, built on the same federal data as this profile.
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How to Choose a Major Pillar
A decision framework for picking a college major using your interests, aptitudes, and federal earnings data to reach a defensible choice before applying.
The real cost of a second major, when it pays back and when it doesn't, and why a focused single major with a relevant minor often beats a double major.
Why the 10-year job-growth outlook often matters more than today's salary, what the BLS projections measure, and how to use them to weigh the future of a field, not just its present.
Original data analyses built on the same federal data as this profile. Rankings, outliers, and patterns, no opinions.
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