Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at Frostburg State University

In Maryland's tech sector, this program places graduates at the lower end of the earnings spectrum, with first-year earnings of $51,247 falling below both the state median ($56,267) and national median ($58,056) for IT management bachelor's degrees. The gap is more concerning when compared to what other Maryland schools produce—University of Maryland Global Campus graduates earn $73,797 in their first year, while even UMBC's program yields $46,286 despite slightly lower initial earnings.

The estimated debt of $25,019 comes from national peer programs since Frostburg's graduate sample was too small for the DOE to report. While that figure suggests a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49, the real concern is earning power. In a field where technical skills directly translate to salary, starting $7,000 below the state average and $22,000 below UMGC's outcomes means your child may need longer to reach career milestones like homeownership or retirement savings. The 89% admission rate and relatively high Pell grant population (33%) suggest Frostburg serves students who need access, but that mission doesn't change the earnings reality.

For families weighing this investment, the question is whether the Frostburg experience—potentially smaller classes, lower living costs in western Maryland—offsets the salary disadvantage. If your child has options at UMGC or other Maryland public universities with stronger tech industry connections, those merit serious consideration. If Frostburg is the path to completing a degree, understand that career advancement may require additional certifications or a strategic job search beyond the immediate region.