Information Science/Studies at Boston College

Boston College's Information Science program punches above its weight class nationally but faces stiff competition closer to home. At $80,731 in first-year earnings, graduates earn nearly $12,000 more than the Massachusetts median and vastly outpace the national figure of $58,651. That 95th percentile national ranking is exceptional. However, in Massachusetts—where seven schools compete in this field—BC lands at the 60th percentile, trailing Wentworth Institute of Technology's $72,095.

The financial fundamentals are solid: $17,500 in median debt is roughly half what typical Information Science graduates carry nationally, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.22. First-year graduates could realistically eliminate their debt within months while living frugally. The 32% earnings growth to $106,214 by year four suggests strong career progression, which is particularly valuable in a tech-adjacent field where staying power matters.

For families weighing BC's selective admission (16% acceptance rate) against purely career-focused alternatives, this program delivers. You're getting Boston College's broader educational experience and alumni network without the crushing debt that often accompanies private university degrees. If your child has admission offers from both BC and state schools like UMass-Lowell, the earnings difference is modest enough that factors like campus culture and fit should drive the decision. The program works financially either way.