Management Information Systems and Services at Chatham University

Similar MIS programs in Pennsylvania suggest first-year earnings around $56,600, which positions this field solidly in tech-adjacent territory without reaching the higher salaries of pure computer science. Chatham's estimated debt of $26,600 creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.47—meaning graduates would owe roughly half their first-year salary. That's workable, though it's worth noting that comparable programs at schools like Villanova and Drexel produce starting salaries in the $70,000-plus range, potentially due to stronger tech industry connections in the Philadelphia corridor.

The challenge here is uncertainty. With no reported outcomes specific to Chatham's program, you're essentially betting that their graduates will perform similarly to the Pennsylvania average. Given that tech hiring can be heavily influenced by alumni networks, employer relationships, and program reputation, that's not a guarantee. The national median for MIS programs sits slightly higher at $59,500, suggesting room for growth if graduates are willing to look beyond Pittsburgh.

For a student genuinely interested in bridging business and technology, the debt load appears reasonable assuming the earnings estimates hold. But before committing, investigate Chatham's specific career placement support, internship pipeline, and where recent graduates actually land—because with this program, you're working with projections rather than a proven track record.