Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 suggests a manageable financial starting point for an MIS graduate, though it's worth noting that both the earnings and debt figures here are estimates based on peer programs across Missouri. Similar MIS programs in the state cluster around $61,000 in first-year earnings—right where this program appears to land—though the actual range at individual schools runs from about $57,000 to nearly $72,000. The estimated debt of roughly $22,000 sits below both state and national medians for this degree, which could provide meaningful breathing room in those critical first years after graduation.
The challenge with MIS at Lindenwood is that we're working without direct outcome data, making it harder to assess how this specific program positions graduates compared to Missouri competitors like Park University, where reported earnings exceed $71,000. MIS degrees generally offer strong employment prospects given the field's technical focus, and the debt burden here appears reasonable. However, parents should recognize they're making this decision with less certainty than they'd have at programs with published outcomes. Before committing, dig into Lindenwood's specific curriculum, internship partnerships, and employer connections—factors that often explain the $15,000 gap between the strongest and weakest MIS programs in Missouri.
Where Lindenwood University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all management information systems and services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri
Management Information Systems and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (13 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $21,100 | $60,762* | — | $21,920* | — | |
| $16,400 | $71,845* | $60,060 | $11,453* | 0.16 | |
| $24,326 | $61,770* | $61,945 | $29,500* | 0.48 | |
| $53,244 | $59,754* | — | $21,920* | 0.37 | |
| $9,024 | $57,284* | $68,407 | $25,930* | 0.45 | |
| National Median | — | $59,490* | — | $24,000* | 0.40 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with management information systems and services graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Computer Programmers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
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 Lindenwood University, approximately 29% 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 4 similar programs in MO. Actual outcomes may vary.