Computer Software and Media Applications at Western Governors University

Salt Lake City, UT · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
76 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
77
Optimistic
76
Base Case
70
Pessimistic
Earnings $95,292/yr (106% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (70% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (262,500 openings/yr)
ROI 27.6x earnings multiple
Ranked #6 of 55 Computer Software and Media Applications programs Top 25%

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 $974K $917K $713K
Earnings Multiple 29.4x 27.6x 21.5x
Probability of Field Employment 80% 71% 41%
DegreeOutlook Score 77 76 70

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$33,200
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$41,768
-26% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$12,566
1.6 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

At $95,292 per year, Computer Software and Media Applications graduates from Western Governors University significantly outpace the $46,351 national average for this major, reflecting strong employer demand for this program's graduates.

With a 27.6x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.

The 27% 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.

The median debt load of $12,566 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios we track.

Western Governors University ranks #6 among 55 Computer Software and Media Applications programs, placing it in the top 5% nationally by our financial outcomes measure.

About Western Governors University

with 135,822 students enrolled in Salt Lake City, UT.

See all programs and financial aid at Western Governors 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 13 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Computer Software and Media Applications 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 76/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Computer Software and Media Applications at Western Governors University?
At 76/100, 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 Software and Media Applications at Western Governors University?
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 Western Governors University one of the best schools for Computer Software and Media Applications?
Among 55 Computer Software and Media Applications programs, Western Governors University's #6 position reflects consistently above-average results across earnings, ROI, and employment probability.
Scores use College Scorecard earnings, BLS employment projections, and AI task-exposure research. See full methodology →