Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Friends University

A tech degree with estimated debt around $27,000 and first-year earnings near $58,000 creates a manageable debt load—roughly half a year's salary—which is reasonable for most bachelor's programs. That said, these figures come from national peer programs rather than Friends' actual graduates, and Kansas data tells a different story. The one Kansas school with reported outcomes (Rasmussen) shows similar earnings but significantly higher debt of nearly $48,000, suggesting regional variation matters. If Friends' actual outcomes lean closer to state patterns, the financial picture would tighten considerably.

The national benchmark earnings of $58,000 for IT administration programs are solid but not exceptional compared to other tech fields. This is a practical, middle-tier tech credential—valuable for system administration and IT management roles, but typically not commanding the premium of software development or engineering degrees. The 56% admission rate and modest test scores at Friends suggest accessible entry requirements, which can be a plus for students who need flexibility or a second chance, though it may also reflect less competitive outcomes data when it eventually surfaces.

For anxious parents, the challenge is weighing a reasonable national benchmark against significant uncertainty about this specific program. If your child has concrete IT career goals and Friends offers the flexibility or location they need, the estimated debt-to-earnings ratio suggests viability. But push the school for placement data, alumni contacts, or internship records—anything beyond these national approximations—before committing.