Information Science/Studies at Clemson University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Clemson's Information Science graduates earn $76,549 in their first year—nearly $21,000 above the South Carolina median and ranking in the 95th percentile nationally among similar programs. That's a significant premium, placing this program second only to Strayer in the state and well ahead of flagship competitors like College of Charleston ($63,069). With debt matching the state average at roughly $26,000, the 0.34 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests graduates can reasonably manage their loans while earning substantially more than peers from other South Carolina programs.
The caveat here is sample size: fewer than 30 recent graduates means these numbers could shift considerably year to year. Information Science isn't Clemson's largest program, so this could represent an unusually successful cohort rather than a consistent pattern. Still, the earnings gap is wide enough—$20,000+ above state median—that even with some variation, Clemson graduates appear well-positioned in the market.
For families weighing Clemson against other SC options for Information Science, the data suggests this program delivers stronger career outcomes than most alternatives. The debt load is manageable, and first-year earnings put graduates ahead financially. Just recognize that the small sample means you're betting on a pattern that may not have deep historical confirmation at this specific program.
Where Clemson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Clemson University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Clemson University graduates earn $77k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all information science/studies bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in South Carolina
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in South Carolina (11 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clemson University | $76,549 | — | $25,964 | 0.34 |
| Strayer University-South Carolina | $71,167 | $78,793 | $53,250 | 0.75 |
| College of Charleston | $63,069 | — | $22,591 | 0.36 |
| University of South Carolina-Upstate | $48,664 | $66,316 | — | — |
| South University-Columbia | $44,682 | $60,708 | $52,173 | 1.17 |
| Coastal Carolina University | $31,322 | $75,165 | $20,336 | 0.65 |
| National Median | $58,651 | — | $25,750 | 0.44 |
Other Information Science/Studies Programs in South Carolina
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across South Carolina schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Strayer University-South Carolina Greenville | $13,920 | $71,167 | $53,250 |
| College of Charleston Charleston | $12,978 | $63,069 | $22,591 |
| University of South Carolina-Upstate Spartanburg | $11,583 | $48,664 | — |
| South University-Columbia Columbia | $18,238 | $44,682 | $52,173 |
| Coastal Carolina University Conway | $11,640 | $31,322 | $20,336 |
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 Clemson 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.
Sample Size: Based on 26 graduates with reported earnings and 27 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.