Analysis
Based on comparable MIS programs across Ohio, Cedarville appears positioned right at the state median with estimated first-year earnings around $68,000—notably higher than the national benchmark of $59,490 and competitive with state flagships like Ohio State. The estimated debt load of $26,581 translates to a manageable 0.39 ratio, meaning graduates would owe roughly five months of first-year salary. This sits comfortably within sustainable territory for a technical field with clear career pathways.
The caveat here is significant: these figures come from peer programs rather than Cedarville's actual graduates, so there's inherent uncertainty about this specific school's outcomes. What we do know is that Ohio's MIS programs generally perform well, and Cedarville's moderately selective profile (SAT average of 1246, 63% admission rate) suggests students who could reasonably compete for those technology sector jobs. However, without reported data, you're essentially betting that Cedarville's particular combination of curriculum, career services, and employer connections will match the state norm.
For families comfortable with that uncertainty, the fundamental economics look sound—MIS is a field where bachelor's-level credentials translate fairly directly to employment, and the estimated debt burden wouldn't be crushing even if actual outcomes fall somewhat short. But if you need certainty about return on investment, programs with reported data would eliminate the guesswork.
Where Cedarville 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)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $36,078 | $68,154* | — | $26,581* | — | |
| $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 | — | $59,490* | — | $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 Cedarville University, approximately 15% 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.