Program Analysis
Starting salaries of $49,999/yr fall 20% below the $62,617 national median for Computer and Information Sciences, General. The financial case depends heavily on whether tuition compensates.
With a 12.5x return on in-state tuition over ten years, the financial case for this program is compelling by virtually any measure.
The 12% difference between AI scenarios reflects partial automation exposure. Some Computer and Information Sciences, General career paths face displacement, but others in the field are more insulated.
At $27,500 against $49,999/yr in earnings, the debt burden is moderate. Most graduates should manage repayment without extended financial strain.
A #326 ranking among 443 Computer and Information Sciences, General programs places University of South Carolina-Upstate in the lower half. Price, proximity, and personal fit become the stronger arguments.
The limited growth from $49,999 to $59,007 over five years suggests earnings in this field plateau relatively early in one's career.