Computer Science at DePaul University

Chicago, IL · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree · Computer and Information Sciences, General
70 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
70
Optimistic
70
Base Case
63
Pessimistic
Earnings $58,220/yr (-7% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (69% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (338,800 openings/yr)
ROI 4.7x earnings multiple
Ranked #308 of 443 Computer and Information Sciences, General programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Computer Science graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $876K $845K $666K
Earnings Multiple 4.9x 4.7x 3.7x
Probability of Field Employment 80% 74% 42%
DegreeOutlook Score 70 70 63

10-Year Earnings Projection

*Year 1 uses actual reported earnings. Scenarios diverge as AI impact compounds over time.

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$177,840
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$116,564
34% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$21,666
4.5 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$88,092
51% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

DePaul University's Computer Science program produces graduates earning $58,220/yr — within striking distance of the $62,617 national average for this field.

At 4.7x tuition cost in decade earnings, the ROI is moderate. This program pays for itself, but it's not a financial slam-dunk.

The 24% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Computer Science career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

Loan repayment is a non-issue here — $21,666 in median debt clears quickly against $58,220 in annual earnings.

A #308 ranking among 443 Computer Science programs places DePaul University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $58,220-to-$88,092 earnings arc over five years reflects a 51% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About DePaul University

A 74% acceptance rate means DePaul University is accessible to most applicants, with a mid-sized student body of 14,283 in Chicago, IL. The average net cost of $116,564 over four years represents a 34% discount from published tuition.

See all programs and financial aid at DePaul University →

Top Career Paths

Computer and information systems managers $171,200/yr
Computer and information research scientists $140,910/yr
Database architects $135,980/yr
View all 14 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

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For students who prefer applied learning, trade programs can deliver strong earnings with significantly less debt and shorter time to employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 70/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Computer Science at DePaul University?
At 70/100, the score looks reasonable — but Computer Science is a high-scoring field overall. Compared to peers, this program's earnings and ROI fall below the median.
Should I worry about AI if I study Computer Science at DePaul University?
The 69% AI task exposure score is above average. Our model shows this affecting job availability more than salaries — graduates may face stiffer competition for fewer positions.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →