Analysis
Security Science and Technology programs in Virginia vary substantially, with graduates from George Mason earning $42,100 while VCU grads start at $37,501. Hampton's estimated first-year earnings of around $39,000—derived from national peer programs—fall squarely in the middle of this range, suggesting competitive positioning for this emerging field. The estimated $27,000 in debt is slightly higher than what similar programs typically report, but the resulting debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69 remains manageable by conventional standards.
The caveat here is significant: both the earnings and debt figures are estimates based on comparable programs nationally, not actual outcomes from Hampton's graduates. This happens when too few students complete a program for the Department of Education to report data reliably. For parents, this means you're evaluating whether Hampton can deliver results similar to peer institutions rather than assessing a proven track record. The program's relative newness or small size could be either a concern about institutional commitment or an opportunity for individualized attention.
Given the uncertainty, your decision hinges on Hampton's broader reputation in technology fields and whether your student has alternative offers with verified outcomes. If this represents your child's best path into security technology—a growing field with steady demand—the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value. But if other Virginia schools with established programs are accessible, those known quantities may warrant serious consideration.
Where Hampton University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all security science and technology bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Virginia
Security Science and Technology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $29,162 | $39,252* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $13,815 | $42,100* | — | $25,747* | 0.61 | |
| $16,458 | $37,501* | $50,263 | $26,000* | 0.69 | |
| National Median | — | $39,252* | — | $25,000* | 0.64 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with security science and technology graduates
Information Security Analysts
Geographers
Financial Examiners
Geography Teachers, Postsecondary
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
Accountants and Auditors
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Police Identification and Records Officers
Intelligence Analysts
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers
Customs and Border Protection Officers
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 Hampton University, approximately 38% 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 41 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.