Analysis
Information Science programs in Pennsylvania cluster around $61,000 in first-year earnings, which is where Juniata's graduates likely land based on comparable programs in the state. At an estimated $28,000 in debt, this translates to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46—manageable by most standards, though notably higher than the national median debt of roughly $26,000 for this degree. The program appears to deliver typical outcomes for Pennsylvania, matching the state median exactly.
What's less certain is whether Juniata can compete with the state's top performers. Albright and Drexel graduates in this field earn $80,000+ in their first year, suggesting that within Pennsylvania, program quality and employer connections vary substantially. Juniata's 72% admission rate and modest SAT profile place it in the middle tier of Pennsylvania colleges, which may explain why the estimated earnings align with state medians rather than top programs. For context, the national median for Information Science degrees is slightly lower at $58,651, so Pennsylvania programs generally perform well.
The practical question is whether this program justifies private college tuition when public options like Pitt-Johnstown produce similar estimated outcomes. If Juniata offers compelling advantages—smaller classes, personalized advising, or specific industry connections—the investment could make sense. But purely on projected earnings versus debt, you're looking at typical value for Pennsylvania, not exceptional.
Where Juniata College 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)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $56,402 | $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 Juniata College, approximately 26% 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.