Management Information Systems and Services at Brigham Young University

Brigham Young University's MIS program shows a dramatic earnings trajectory that compensates for modest beginnings. While first-year earnings from similar programs nationally hover around $59,490—well below Utah's typical $72,473 for this field—graduates reach nearly $120,000 by year four. That four-year figure handily exceeds what peer programs typically produce in Utah and suggests graduates secure strong positions in tech or consulting after initial entry roles.

The estimated $26,581 in debt translates to a 0.45 ratio against first-year earnings, manageable even during those lower initial years. For context, comparable programs nationally carry around $24,000 in debt, so BYU students take on slightly more but not dramatically so. The real question is whether your student can weather two to three years of earnings that lag state averages—particularly relevant if they're comparing offers from Weber State, where graduates start closer to $72,000.

The four-year earnings surge likely reflects BYU's recruiting pipeline into major tech employers and the value of its alumni network once graduates gain experience. If your student can accept lower starting pay in exchange for accelerated mid-career growth, this program delivers. If they need strong immediate earnings to service debt or support themselves, programs with higher starting salaries might make more financial sense.