Information Science/Studies at California State University-Fullerton

Cal State Fullerton's Information Science program delivers exceptionally low debt—just $15,337, well below California's median of $19,877—but earnings lag significantly behind alternatives. Starting at $49,897, graduates earn about $13,000 less than the California median and rank in just the 25th percentile statewide. Among the 11 California schools offering this degree, you'll find notably stronger options: UC Riverside graduates start at $76,090, a $26,000 difference that compounds over time.

The 24% earnings growth to $61,927 by year four helps close the gap somewhat, but graduates still trail state peers earning $63,000 at the median. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31 looks reasonable on paper, yet that's partly because the debt is low rather than the earnings being strong. For a school serving 47% Pell-eligible students, the manageable debt matters—but so does earning potential.

If your child has other California options for information science, particularly UC Riverside or schools near the state median, those merit serious consideration. The earnings gap isn't trivial, and it persists even after several years of work experience. This program makes the most sense if in-state tuition and location are decisive factors and your family prioritizes minimizing debt over maximizing starting salary.