Analysis
Based on comparable information science programs in Texas, graduates here can expect around $55,000 in first-year earnings against roughly $25,000 in debt—a manageable 0.45 ratio that suggests students would need about half a year's salary to cover what they borrowed. That's a reasonable starting point, especially for a field where technical skills can accelerate earning potential after those first twelve months. The estimated debt load sits just below both state and national medians for this degree, which matters when your child is entering a competitive job market where staying power often depends on having breathing room to find the right role rather than taking the first offer.
What's less certain is how East Texas A&M's specific program compares to the state's leaders. UT Arlington's reported outcomes show graduates earning $57,756, while Strayer's reach $71,167—both with actual data rather than peer-based estimates. The difference between this program's estimated figures and those verified outcomes could reflect genuine variation in curriculum, industry connections, or the rural Commerce location versus urban tech hubs. For a field where internships and proximity to employers often drive early career success, geography isn't trivial.
The bottom line: the estimated numbers suggest a defensible investment, but you're working with educated guesses rather than this school's track record. If your child has admission offers from programs with reported outcomes—particularly those in metro areas—compare carefully before committing.
Where East Texas A&M University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Texas
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Texas (18 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $10,026 | $55,081* | — | $25,000* | — | |
| $13,920 | $71,167* | $78,793 | $53,250* | 0.75 | |
| $11,728 | $57,756* | $75,393 | $20,205* | 0.35 | |
| $11,852 | $55,081* | $77,185 | $25,000* | 0.45 | |
| $11,164 | $52,449* | — | $26,375* | 0.50 | |
| $18,238 | $44,682* | $60,708 | $52,173* | 1.17 | |
| National Median | — | $58,651* | — | $25,750* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with information science/studies graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Occupations, All Other
Web Administrators
Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians
Document Management Specialists
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 East Texas A&M University, approximately 41% 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 5 similar programs in TX. Actual outcomes may vary.