Analysis
Pennsylvania's information science programs suggest graduates typically earn around $61,000 in their first year, and comparable programs at similar institutions carry roughly $28,000 in debt. This puts Gannon's estimated debt-to-earnings ratio at 0.46—meaning borrowed amounts equal less than half of first-year salary. That's a manageable starting position, though not exceptional given that some PA schools like Albright and Drexel report outcomes in the $78,000-$80,000 range.
The challenge here is uncertainty. With too few graduates for the Department of Education to publish actual outcomes, you're making decisions based on state averages rather than Gannon's specific track record. Information science programs vary significantly in their technical depth, industry connections, and curriculum focus—factors that directly influence whether graduates land higher-paying roles or start near the median. Gannon's 77% admission rate and relatively low Pell enrollment (22%) suggest a typical mid-tier private institution, but without actual placement data, it's unclear whether their program connects students to employers willing to pay above the state average.
The estimated debt load is reasonable enough that the program likely won't create financial hardship, assuming graduates actually achieve that $61,000 median. But for a family paying private school tuition, the absence of proven outcomes data means you're essentially betting on Gannon performing at least as well as the average Pennsylvania program—a reasonable assumption, but one worth confirming through direct conversations with the department about internship placements and employer relationships.
Where Gannon University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (19 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $37,951 | $61,163* | — | $28,063* | — | |
| $28,794 | $80,329* | $80,037 | $36,196* | 0.45 | |
| $60,663 | $78,755* | $93,411 | $29,125* | 0.37 | |
| $13,920 | $71,167* | $78,793 | $53,250* | 0.75 | |
| $34,940 | $62,375* | — | $27,000* | 0.43 | |
| $14,646 | $59,951* | $74,870 | $27,000* | 0.45 | |
| 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 Gannon University, approximately 22% 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 8 similar programs in PA. Actual outcomes may vary.