Computer Software and Media Applications at Texas A & M University-College Station

College Station, TX · Public · Bachelor's Degree
49 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case) — assumes in-state tuition
50
Optimistic
49
Base Case
54
Pessimistic
Earnings $35,991/yr (-22% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (70% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (262,500 openings/yr)
ROI 11.6x earnings multiple (3.8x out-of-state)
Ranked #29 of 55 Computer Software and Media Applications programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

Three scenarios based on how aggressively AI disrupts the career paths available to Computer Software and Media Applications graduates.

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $621K $605K $532K
Earnings Multiple (In-State) 11.8x 11.6x 10.1x
Earnings Multiple (Out-of-State) 3.8x 3.8x 3.3x
Probability of Field Employment 80% 71% 41%
DegreeOutlook Score 50 49 54

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition, In-State (Sticker)
$52,396
Out-of-state: $161,312 (3.8x ROI)
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$83,696
-60% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$19,739
6.6 months of Year 1 earnings
Reported Earnings (5 Year)
$57,961
61% growth from Year 1

Program Analysis

Starting salaries of $35,991/yr fall 22% below the $46,351 national median for Computer Software and Media Applications. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.

With a 11.6x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 14% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Computer Software and Media Applications career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

At $19,739 against $35,991/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.

A #29 ranking among 55 Computer Software and Media Applications programs places Texas A & M University-College Station in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

The $35,991-to-$57,961 earnings arc over five years reflects a 61% gain — well above average career growth for recent graduates.

About Texas A & M University-College Station

With a 63% acceptance rate, Texas A & M University-College Station is moderately selective, one of the larger campuses at 59,099 students in College Station, TX.

See all programs and financial aid at Texas A & M University-College Station →

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 13 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Computer Software and Media Applications at Other Schools

Other Majors at Texas A & M University-College Station

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 49/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Computer Software and Media Applications at Texas A & M University-College Station?
At 49/100, the financial outlook is modest. Higher-scoring Computer Software and Media Applications programs exist, though non-financial factors may justify this choice.
Should I worry about AI if I study Computer Software and Media Applications at Texas A & M University-College Station?
The 70% 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.
Is Texas A & M University-College Station a good choice for Computer Software and Media Applications despite lower starting pay?
Starting salary is one data point. If Texas A & M University-College Station's tuition is significantly below average, the ROI calculation can still work — lower earnings paired with lower costs can be a reasonable trade.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →