STEM Specialization

Computer Software & Media

Computer Software & Media graduates earn $58,894 four years out. Related careers are growing at up to 33.5%, one of the stronger demand signals across all fields. Data Scientist is among the highest-growth roles in the field.

About Computer Software & Media

Computer Software & Media is a focused area of study within Computer Science. Graduates typically earn around $58,894 four years out, a solid return for a focused credential. The program is available at 726 colleges across the U.S., from community colleges to research universities. About 14,684 students complete this program each year. Coursework leans technical and quantitative, with lab or project work common.


Median Earnings · 1yr
$37,963
Median Earnings · 4yr
$58,894
Colleges Offering
726
Graduates / Year
14,684
Avg Net Price / yr
$32,716

How Much Do Computer Software & Media Graduates Earn?

Computer Software & Media graduates earn $58,894 four years out, near the national median for college graduates. The middle 50% of earners fall between $35,549 and $88,211. Earnings typically jump significantly in the first few years. The one-year figure of $37,963 climbs to $58,894 by year four.

$37,963
1 Year After Graduation

Starting salaries only. Earnings in this field grow substantially in the first 3 to 5 years.

$58,894
4-Year National Median

Near the national median for college graduates.

$59,769
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 Software & Media 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.


Understanding the Cost vs. Return

At median 4-year earnings of $58,894 and an estimated $130,864 four-year net cost, earnings breakeven against a baseline wage takes approximately 4.5 years. Compare specific programs before committing to a high-cost option.

Based on outcomes from 202 schools. Colleges with fewer than 30 graduates are excluded from national averages.

Who Studies This? Credential Breakdown

Of the 14,684 students who complete Computer Software & Media programs each year, the majority (36%) earn a bachelor's degree. The breakdown below shows the full credential distribution.

Bachelor's 36%
Master's 33%
Associate's 18%

What Can You Do With a Computer Software & Media Degree?

Computer Software & Media connects to 8 occupations in the job market. Computer & Information Systems Manager leads at $175,140/yr median. Expand any card to see daily responsibilities, in-demand skills, and 10-year growth projections.

↗ +15.2% Zone 4: Considerable preparation
$175,140
$138K $221K 25th–75th pct.
Bachelor's degree 55,600 openings/yr 671K employed nationally
Critical Thinking Reading Comprehension Active Listening Speaking Monitoring
Day-to-day responsibilities

Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.

  • Direct daily operations of department, analyzing workflow, establishing priorities, developing standards and setting deadlines.
  • Meet with department heads, managers, supervisors, vendors, and others, to solicit cooperation and resolve problems.
  • Review project plans to plan and coordinate project activity.
↗ +19.7% Zone 5: Extensive preparation
$140,300
$104K $189K 25th–75th pct.
Master's degree 3,200 openings/yr 37K employed nationally
Judgment and Decision Making Critical Thinking Complex Problem Solving Reading Comprehension Active Listening
Day-to-day responsibilities

Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.

  • Analyze problems to develop solutions involving computer hardware and software.
  • Apply theoretical expertise and innovation to create or apply new technology, such as adapting principles for applying computers to new uses.
  • Assign or schedule tasks to meet work priorities and goals.
↗ +8.7% Zone 4: Considerable preparation
$139,500
$109K $169K 25th–75th pct.
Bachelor's degree 4,000 openings/yr 67K employed nationally
Critical Thinking Judgment and Decision Making Reading Comprehension Complex Problem Solving Critical Thinking
Day-to-day responsibilities

Design strategies for enterprise databases, data warehouse systems, and multidimensional networks. Set standards for database operations, programming, query processes, and security. Model, design, and construct large relational databases or data warehouses. Create and optimize data models for warehouse infrastructure and workflow. Integrate new systems with existing warehouse structure and refine system performance and functionality.

  • Develop and document database architectures.
  • Collaborate with system architects, software architects, design analysts, and others to understand business or industry requirements.
  • Develop database architectural strategies at the modeling, design and implementation stages to address business or industry requirements.
↗ +15.8% Zone 4: Considerable preparation
$135,980
$105K $172K 25th–75th pct.
Bachelor's degree 115,200 openings/yr 1.7M employed nationally
Programming Critical Thinking Judgment and Decision Making Reading Comprehension Active 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.
↗ +33.5% Zone 4: Considerable preparation
$120,230
$86K $159K 25th–75th pct.
Bachelor's degree 23,400 openings/yr 262K employed nationally
Critical Thinking Reading Comprehension Reading Comprehension Active Listening Speaking
Day-to-day responsibilities

Develop and implement a set of techniques or analytics applications to transform raw data into meaningful information using data-oriented programming languages and visualization software. Apply data mining, data modeling, natural language processing, and machine learning to extract and analyze information from large structured and unstructured datasets. Visualize, interpret, and report data findings. May create dynamic data reports.

  • Generate standard or custom reports summarizing business, financial, or economic data for review by executives, managers, clients, and other stakeholders.
  • Maintain or update business intelligence tools, databases, dashboards, systems, or methods.
  • Manage timely flow of business intelligence information to users.
↘ -0.7% Zone 4: Considerable preparation
$104,620
$80K $135K 25th–75th pct.
Bachelor's degree 3,800 openings/yr 70K employed nationally
Critical Thinking Complex Problem Solving Reading Comprehension Judgment and Decision Making Active Listening
Day-to-day responsibilities

Administer, test, and implement computer databases, applying knowledge of database management systems. Coordinate changes to computer databases. Identify, investigate, and resolve database performance issues, database capacity, and database scalability. May plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard computer databases.

  • Modify existing databases and database management systems or direct programmers and analysts to make changes.
  • Plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard information in computer files against accidental or unauthorized damage, modification or disclosure.
  • Plan and install upgrades of database management system software to enhance database performance.
↗ +7.0% Zone 4: Considerable preparation
$104,000
$73K $159K 25th–75th pct.
Bachelor's degree 9,100 openings/yr 113K employed nationally
Programming Active Listening Reading Comprehension Critical Thinking Judgment 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.
↗ +1.6% Zone 4: Considerable preparation
$102,030
$75K $139K 25th–75th pct.
Bachelor's degree 5,000 openings/yr 20K employed nationally
Active Listening Reading Comprehension Critical Thinking Speaking Judgment and Decision Making
Day-to-day responsibilities

Create special effects or animations using film, video, computers, or other electronic tools and media for use in products, such as computer games, movies, music videos, and commercials.

  • Design complex graphics and animation, using independent judgment, creativity, and computer equipment.
  • Create basic designs, drawings, and illustrations for product labels, cartons, direct mail, or television.
  • Participate in design and production of multimedia campaigns, handling budgeting and scheduling, and assisting with such responsibilities as production coordination, background design, and progress tracking.

Top Colleges for Computer Software & Media

The 20 colleges below are ranked by how many Computer Software & Media students they graduate each year. Scroll right to compare acceptance rate, net price, and median earnings side by side.

# College Graduates Acceptance Net Price/yr Earnings 10yr
1 Berklee College of Music Boston, MA · Nonprofit 635 43.5% $49,465 $33,647
2 School of Visual Arts New York, NY · For-Profit 410 92.6% $57,914 $46,459
3 George Mason University Fairfax, VA · Public 319 87.5% $17,915 $76,343
4 The New School New York, NY · Nonprofit 314 63.5% $58,741 $52,901
5 Southern New Hampshire University Manchester, NH · Nonprofit 308 99.5% $36,708 $50,318
6 New York University New York, NY · Nonprofit 275 9.2% $37,050 $82,509
7 Northeastern University Boston, MA · Nonprofit 214 5.2% $30,915 $92,538
8 Purdue University-Main Campus West Lafayette, IN · Public 211 49.9% $14,600 $72,424
9 Rochester Institute of Technology Rochester, NY · Nonprofit 197 66.9% $34,906 $76,571
10 University of Southern California Los Angeles, CA · Nonprofit 148 9.8% $32,740 $92,498
11 New England College Henniker, NH · Nonprofit 134 92.1% $26,972 $42,092
12 University of St Thomas Saint Paul, MN · Nonprofit 127 85.4% $29,155 $73,739
13 DeVry University-Illinois Lisle, IL · For-Profit 122 98.4% $30,770 $45,987
14 Boston University Boston, MA · Nonprofit 120 11.1% $24,402 $83,238
15 DePaul University Chicago, IL · Nonprofit 119 75.9% $30,902 $68,751
16 Brigham Young University-Idaho Rexburg, ID · Nonprofit 107 95.8% $8,221 $53,406
17 Texas A&M University-College Station College Station, TX · Public 105 57.4% $21,315 $72,097
18 DigiPen Institute of Technology Redmond, WA · For-Profit 103 64.4% $44,446 $79,878
19 University of Arizona Tucson, AZ · Public 97 86.1% $16,674 $59,979
20 Rhode Island School of Design Providence, RI · Nonprofit 96 18.7% $50,507 $68,140

Ranked by Computer Software & Media graduate volume. Scroll right to compare key stats. Read our methodology →

Plan Your Path

Decide with data, not guesswork. These tools turn the numbers on this page into a personal plan. Estimate the real cost of a Computer Software & Media program, compare colleges side-by-side, weigh the long-term payoff, and find schools that match your profile.

Computer Software & Media Degree: Pros & Cons

The data on Computer Software & Media shows 4 measurable strengths and 3 real trade-offs. All points are sourced from College Scorecard earnings, BLS projections, and IPEDS graduate counts.

PROS
  • Above-average earnings Four-year median of $58,894 puts graduates ahead of many humanities and social science programs.
  • Strong salary growth Median earnings climb from $37,963 at graduation to $58,894 four years later, a clear sign of career momentum in this field.
  • Fast-growing field Related careers are projected to grow up to +33.5% over the next decade, with Data Scientist among the fastest-growing roles.
  • Strong hiring volume Related occupations generate more than 219,300 job openings per year combined, creating consistent demand for graduates.
CONS
  • Advanced degree often expected Top 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 areas 1 related career show negative 10-year employment projections. Research specific roles before committing.
  • High earnings variance Gap between 25th ($35,549) and 75th ($88,211) percentile is wide. Where you land depends heavily on employer, role, and location.

Computer Software & Media Degree: Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Computer Software & Media graduates earn?
Computer Software & Media graduates earn a national median of $58,894 four years after completing their program. The middle 50% of earners fall between $35,549 and $88,211. Where you land typically depends on employer, role, and location.
What is the starting salary for a Computer Software & Media degree?
One year after graduation, Computer Software & Media degree holders earn a median of $37,963. That climbs to $58,894 four years out. The biggest salary jumps typically come once you move past entry-level roles.
What jobs can you get with a Computer Software & Media degree?
Computer Software & Media degree holders pursue careers including Computer & Information Systems Manager, which pays a median of $175,140/yr. Scroll down to the Career Paths section to see wages and job growth projections for every related occupation.
How long does a Computer Software & Media program take?
A Computer Software & Media bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study. Community colleges offer associate programs in two years for students who want a faster path into the workforce.
How many colleges offer Computer Software & Media?
726 colleges and universities in the United States offer Computer Software & Media programs. Options range from community colleges with certificates and associate degrees to research universities with doctoral tracks.
Is a Computer Software & Media degree worth it?
With a median 4-year salary of $58,894 and an average net price of roughly $32,716/yr, a Computer Software & Media 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 Software & Media and Computer Science?
Computer Software & Media 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 Software & Media-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 Software & Media graduates?
Employers hiring Computer Software & Media 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 Software & Media 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 Software & Media graduates?
The job outlook for Computer Software & Media graduates is strong overall. Related occupations project an average of +12.6% job growth over the next 10 years. Data Scientist is among the strongest-growth roles at +33.5%. Growth varies by role and location, so check the Career Paths section for projections on each specific occupation.

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