Computer Networkingat University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
Graduates earn $68,047/yr in their first year — about 17.0% above the national Computer Networking average. Base-case 10-year earnings $962K; scenarios range from $738K to $1,008K depending on AI disruption.
What this degree looks like at University of Minnesota
The strong outcomes for this degree are deeply tied to the Twin Cities' economy. As a student at a major public research university, you’ll be in the backyard of Fortune 500 companies like Target, Best Buy, and UnitedHealth Group, all of which rely on massive, complex internal networks. The program provides a direct pipeline for roles in network architecture, cloud infrastructure, and cybersecurity within these local giants, not just coastal tech hubs. This isn't just about coding; it's about managing the digital plumbing that global businesses depend on.
While the "AI Risk" looks high, it primarily targets routine administration tasks. Your career's longevity will depend on mastering the complex, strategic side of the field. Therefore, my advice is to aggressively pursue internships focusing on cloud security or network design, not just basic IT support, to prove you can solve problems automation can't.
Three scenarios, ten years out
Each scenario is a different assumption about how AI reshapes the career paths this major feeds into. Earnings projections stack the full 10-year cumulative trajectory; scores use the same 0–100 metric as the hero, recomputed under that scenario's assumptions.
10 year projection
Year-by-year earnings under each scenario. Base case reflects BLS growth patterns applied to University of Minnesota's starting earnings; optimistic and pessimistic adjust for AI's effect on each career path this major feeds into.
Common career destinations for this program's graduates, weighted by the school's specific occupation mix. Salary is BLS national median; AI risk is per-role task-exposure research.
Peer schools offering Computer Networking
How University of Minnesota stacks up against other schools offering this major.
Other top programs at University of Minnesota
Other highest-scoring programs offered at University of Minnesota, ranked by DegreeOutlook Score.
Consider the trade route
Not sure a 4-year degree is the right path? Trade programs in Computer Networking offer shorter timelines, lower debt, and strong AI resilience for hands-on careers.
Compare Computer Networking trade programs on TradeSchoolOutlook →Frequently asked about Computer Networking at University of Minnesota
What does a 81/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Computer Networking at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities?
At 81/100, 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 Networking at University of Minnesota-Twin Cities?
The 68% 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.