Computer Programming at Elon University

Elon, NC · Private nonprofit · Bachelor's Degree
59 /100
DegreeOutlook Score (Base Case)
62
Optimistic
59
Base Case
52
Pessimistic
Earnings $79,819/yr (35% vs median)
AI Risk Very High (78% exposed)
Job Market Very Large (162,300 openings/yr)
ROI 4.3x earnings multiple
Ranked #23 of 31 Computer Programming programs

How AI Changes the Outlook

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

Optimistic
No Disruption
Base Case
Gradual AI
Pessimistic
Aggressive AI
10-Year Earnings $832K $775K $620K
Earnings Multiple 4.7x 4.3x 3.5x
Probability of Field Employment 80% 67% 37%
DegreeOutlook Score 62 59 52

10-Year Earnings Projection

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

4-Year Tuition (Sticker)
$178,144
4-Year Net Price (After Aid)
$164,192
8% less than sticker · See by income
Median Debt at Graduation
$19,500
2.9 months of Year 1 earnings

Program Analysis

At $79,819 per year, Computer Programming graduates from Elon University significantly outpace the $59,149 national average for this major, reflecting strong employer demand for this program's graduates.

At 4.3x tuition cost in decade earnings, the ROI is moderate. This program pays for itself, but it's not a financial slam-dunk.

The 25% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Computer Programming career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.

The median debt load of $19,500 represents less than half a year of starting salary — among the lightest debt-to-income ratios we track.

A #23 ranking among 31 Computer Programming programs places Elon University in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.

About Elon University

Elon University accepts 67% of applicants, balancing access with selectivity, with a mid-sized student body of 6,402 in Elon, NC.

See all programs and financial aid at Elon University →

Top Career Paths

Software developers $133,080/yr
Software quality assurance analysts and testers $102,610/yr
Computer programmers $98,670/yr
View all 7 career paths with salary ranges and AI risk →

Compare & Explore

Computer Programming at Other Schools

Other Majors at Elon University

Is a Trade Program a Better Fit?

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 59/100 DegreeOutlook Score mean for Computer Programming at Elon University?
At 59/100, the score looks reasonable — but Computer Programming 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 Programming at Elon University?
The 78% 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 →