Analysis
The contrast between national expectations and Oregon's reality is stark for Information Science programs. Peer programs nationally produce median first-year earnings around $58,651, but the only Oregon school with reported data—Western Oregon University—shows graduates earning just $39,320. That's a $19,000 gap that should shape your expectations for George Fox's outcomes.
With an estimated $26,694 in debt against earnings that could land anywhere in that wide range, you're looking at very different scenarios. If George Fox graduates track closer to national patterns, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 would be manageable—less than half a year's salary. But if outcomes mirror Oregon's reported figure more closely, that same debt becomes a heavier burden. The small sample size that triggered data suppression here means we simply don't know which way this program tilts.
George Fox's 96% admission rate and modest SAT scores suggest it serves a broad student population, which could mean graduates enter diverse career paths with varying earning potential. Before committing, push the school for placement data: where do their Information Science graduates actually work, and what roles do they secure? The difference between tech-adjacent roles in Portland versus other positions could explain everything about whether this investment pays off.
Where George Fox University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Oregon
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Oregon (2 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40,940 | $58,651* | — | $26,694* | — | |
| $11,025 | $39,320* | — | —* | — | |
| 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 George Fox University, approximately 27% 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 national median of 129 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.