Computer Science at Michigan State University

East Lansing, MI · Public · Bachelor's Degree · Computer and Information Sciences, General
87 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
88
Optimistic
87
Base Case
80
Pessimistic
Earnings $86,192/yr (38% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (69% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (338,800 openings/yr)
ROI 14.6x earnings multiple (5.4x out-of-state)
Ranked #44 of 443 Computer and Information Sciences, General programs Top 10%

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 $976K $937K $718K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 15.3x 14.6x 11.2x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 5.6x 5.4x 4.1x
Probability of Field Employment 80% 74% 42%
DegreeOutlook Score 88 87 80

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$63,952
Out-of-state: $173,488 (5.4x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$83,004
-30% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$22,500
3.1 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$105,539
22% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

At $86,192 per year, Computer Science graduates from Michigan State University significantly outpace the $62,617 national average for this major, reflecting strong employer demand for this program's graduates.

With a 14.6x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 26% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Computer Science career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

The median debt load of $22,500 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios we track.

At #44 of 443 programs, this Computer Science program outperforms the majority of its peers. The top 10% ranking reflects consistently above-average outcomes.

A 22% earnings increase from $86,192 to $105,539 over five years is solid — not a moonshot, but evidence of normal career advancement.

About Michigan State University

With 84% of applicants admitted, Michigan State University prioritizes broad access, serving a student body of 40,243 in East Lansing, MI.

See all programs and financial aid at Michigan State 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

Computer Science at Other Schools

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Explore the Trade Alternative

Not every career requires a four-year degree. Trade programs in related fields can offer competitive salaries with a fraction of the student loan burden.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a 87/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Computer Science at Michigan State University?
At 87/100, this is a high-performing program. The DegreeOutlook Score combines earnings, AI resilience, and ROI — and this program delivers on all three.
Should I worry about AI if I study Computer Science at Michigan State 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 →