Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
A Management Information Systems bachelor's typically positions graduates for solid tech-adjacent roles, and similar programs in New York suggest first-year earnings around $60,000—right at the state median for this field. With estimated debt of $26,581, the 0.44 debt-to-earnings ratio falls into reasonable territory, particularly for a field where earnings tend to grow as professionals develop specialized technical skills.
What's harder to assess here is Excelsior's specific value proposition. The top MIS programs in New York—Binghamton and RIT—produce graduates earning substantially more in their first year, though comparable programs in the state also produce outcomes closer to what peer data suggests for Excelsior. The uncertainty matters: without knowing Excelsior's actual curriculum rigor, internship pipelines, or employer connections, you're essentially betting that this online-focused institution will deliver outcomes similar to the average New York MIS program.
The practical question is whether your child has clearer options. If they're comparing this to other New York MIS programs where actual outcomes are known, those typically offer more transparency about what you're buying. Excelsior may work for students who need the flexibility of online learning or are already working in tech, but the lack of verifiable outcomes data means you're taking on more uncertainty than necessary when other credible programs report their numbers.
Where Excelsior University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all management information systems and services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Management Information Systems and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (18 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | $60,033* | — | $26,581* | — | |
| $10,363 | $81,708* | $98,459 | $19,500* | 0.24 | |
| $57,016 | $69,834* | $92,311 | $25,105* | 0.36 | |
| $8,881 | $50,232* | $60,866 | $24,799* | 0.49 | |
| $45,880 | $48,720* | — | $26,661* | 0.55 | |
| 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 Excelsior University, approximately 25% 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 4 similar programs in NY. Actual outcomes may vary.