Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
The estimated $26,694 in debt for this degree sits slightly above the Kansas state median for Information Science programs, but the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.47 suggests manageable repayment—assuming the earnings estimate holds true for Friends graduates. Based on comparable programs in Kansas, first-year earnings around $56,400 would put students in a position to handle monthly loan payments without excessive financial strain, though this is right at the state median rather than notably above it.
What makes the numbers more interesting is the four-year earnings figure of $83,607, which represents substantial income growth and suggests Information Science graduates can advance their earning potential relatively quickly. This mid-career trajectory matters significantly when evaluating whether the initial debt load makes sense. However, without actual reported data from Friends University itself, it's difficult to know whether this school's specific program connects students to opportunities that deliver on these estimates or falls short.
For parents weighing this investment, the key question is whether Friends University's career services, employer connections, and curriculum justify choosing this program over the state's alternatives. The estimated figures suggest a viable path, but Rasmussen University's actual reported outcomes of $64,329 demonstrate that some Kansas programs produce measurably stronger first-year results. Before committing, press the school on their specific placement outcomes and employer partnerships to verify their graduates actually achieve earnings competitive with the state median.
Where Friends University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Friends University | — | $83,607 | — |
| Boston College | $80,731 | $106,214 | +32% |
| Florida Institute of Technology | $59,368 | $101,605 | +71% |
| Emporia State University | $48,438 | $76,076 | +57% |
| Fort Hays State University | $56,399 | $59,087 | +5% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (9 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $32,748 | $56,399* | $83,607 | $26,694* | — | |
| $15,340 | $64,329* | — | $22,632* | 0.35 | |
| $5,633 | $56,399* | $59,087 | $26,427* | 0.47 | |
| $7,356 | $48,438* | $76,076 | $19,237* | 0.40 | |
| 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 Friends University, approximately 34% 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 3 similar programs in KS. Actual outcomes may vary.