Analysis
Information science programs in Florida suggest first-year earnings around $59,000, which aligns closely with what similar bachelor's programs produce nationally. For a field that feeds into IT support, data analysis, and systems coordination roles, this represents solid early-career positioning—particularly when paired with an estimated debt load of $26,700. That 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio falls comfortably below the concerning 1.0 threshold and tracks better than many Florida programs in this field, where median debt runs nearly double at $52,700.
The real question centers on Bethune-Cookman's capacity to deliver these outcomes. With open admission and 77% of students receiving Pell grants, this HBCU serves students who typically face additional barriers to career placement. While comparable Florida programs show a wide earnings range—from $57,000 to over $71,000—the accessibility factor matters. If BCU can connect graduates to the regional tech opportunities in Orlando or Jacksonville, the financial picture works: five years of modest payments would clear the debt while building toward higher mid-career earnings typical in tech fields.
The caveat parents need to understand: these figures reflect what peer programs produce, not BCU's specific track record. Given the university's mission and student population, internship access, career services quality, and industry connections will determine whether this investment pays off as projected. For families weighing cost against opportunity, this represents manageable risk if the student can leverage BCU's support systems effectively.
Where Bethune-Cookman University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $14,794 | $59,368* | — | $26,694* | — | |
| $13,920 | $71,167* | $78,793 | $53,250* | 0.75 | |
| $15,117 | $64,329* | — | $22,632* | 0.35 | |
| $44,360 | $59,368* | $101,605 | $54,375* | 0.92 | |
| $12,240 | $59,368* | $101,605 | $54,375* | 0.92 | |
| $2,496 | $57,313* | — | $27,007* | 0.47 | |
| National Median | — | $58,651* | — | $25,750* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with information science/studies graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Occupations, All Other
Web Administrators
Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians
Document Management Specialists
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 Bethune-Cookman University, approximately 77% 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 6 similar programs in FL. Actual outcomes may vary.