Information Science/Studies at Emporia State University

Emporia State's Information Science program shows a dramatic earnings trajectory that deserves careful scrutiny, though the small sample size (under 30 graduates) makes these numbers less reliable than typical program data. Graduates start at $48,438—well below both the Kansas median ($56,399) and national average ($58,651)—but by year four reach $76,076, representing 57% growth that substantially outpaces typical outcomes for this field.

The debt picture provides some reassurance: at $19,237, graduates borrow about $3,400 less than the typical Kansas student in this program and roughly $6,500 less than the national median. This creates a manageable 0.40 debt-to-earnings ratio based on first-year income. However, that first-year earning figure ranks in just the 40th percentile among Kansas programs and 21st percentile nationally, meaning half of Kansas graduates and nearly 80% of graduates nationwide start with better salaries. The strong four-year earnings suggest graduates may be entering the field at entry-level positions before advancing, but with fewer than 30 data points, it's unclear whether this pattern holds consistently.

For families comfortable with some uncertainty in the data, the combination of below-average debt and strong mid-career earnings potential makes this program financially viable. Just recognize you're working with limited information—these numbers could shift significantly with more graduate data. If your student has admission offers from Fort Hays or other Kansas schools with more established track records, those might offer more predictable outcomes.