Analysis
Based on comparable MIS programs in Ohio, Ashland's graduates can expect first-year earnings around $68,000โa figure that positions this program right at the state median and notably above the national benchmark of $59,500. The estimated $26,600 in debt yields a manageable 0.39 debt-to-earnings ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly five months' salary. For context, Ohio's tech-focused programs cluster tightly between $68,000 and $72,000, with Ashland's estimated outcomes landing squarely in this competitive range.
What's worth noting is that MIS programs typically deliver stronger earnings than many business degrees, combining technical skills with business acumen in ways employers value immediately. The estimated debt load here aligns closely with both state and national norms for this credential, suggesting standard borrowing patterns. For a school with an 81% admission rate, producing outcomes on par with state flagships represents solid positioning in Ohio's tech education landscape.
The caveat: these figures are drawn from peer programs rather than Ashland's actual graduate outcomes, so there's inherent uncertainty. Still, the estimated numbers suggest a degree that should pay for itself relatively quickly if the projections hold. Parents should verify Ashland's specific job placement rates and recruiter relationships in tech hubs like Columbus or Cleveland, since local employer connections often matter more than small variations in starting salary for MIS graduates.
Where Ashland University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all management information systems and services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Ohio
Management Information Systems and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (28 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $28,910 | $68,154* | โ | $26,581* | โ | |
| $17,809 | $72,045* | $86,413 | $25,994* | 0.36 | |
| $12,859 | $72,017* | $79,987 | $21,500* | 0.30 | |
| $47,600 | $69,995* | $77,401 | $26,500* | 0.38 | |
| $6,178 | $68,154* | $76,246 | $26,000* | 0.38 | |
| $6,178 | $68,154* | $76,246 | $26,000* | 0.38 | |
| National Median | โ | $59,490* | โ | $24,000* | 0.40 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with management information systems and services graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Computer Programmers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Ashland University, approximately 28% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 13 similar programs in OH. Actual outcomes may vary.