Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
A Management Information Systems degree typically launches graduates into solid tech careers, but the estimated $26,581 in debt here is notably higher than what most California MIS programs report—the state median sits at just under $20,000. While this debt level remains manageable given the field's earning potential, it reflects Loyola Marymount's private university premium without the earnings boost you'd want to justify it.
Based on comparable programs across California, first-year earnings around $61,000 suggest this degree should deliver decent returns. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43 means graduates would need roughly five months of gross income to cover their loans—workable, though not exceptional. What's concerning is the comparison to other California programs: Santa Clara and UC Irvine graduates from similar MIS programs start at $90,000-plus, while even Cal State Northridge hovers near $59,000 with presumably lower debt loads. The school's 13% Pell grant rate suggests most families here are paying full freight.
For an anxious parent, the practical question is whether Loyola Marymount's network and location in LA's tech scene justify paying more than state schools while earning similar starting salaries. If your child has admits to UC schools or can access California State programs at a fraction of the cost, those represent clearer value propositions in MIS. This degree should work out financially, but it's not the standout investment in California's competitive tech education landscape.
Where Loyola Marymount University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all management information systems and services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Management Information Systems and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (14 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Loyola Marymount UniversityLos Angeles | $58,974 | $61,359* | — | $26,581* | — |
 Santa Clara UniversitySanta Clara | $59,241 | $93,042* | — | $19,995* | 0.21 |
 National UniversitySan Diego | $13,320 | $92,758* | $85,671 | $28,675* | 0.31 |
 University of California-IrvineIrvine | $14,237 | $68,786* | $100,891 | $16,500* | 0.24 |
 Ashford UniversitySan Diego | $13,160 | $61,359* | $58,231 | $40,327* | 0.66 |
 California State University-NorthridgeNorthridge | $7,095 | $58,733* | $74,354 | $21,851* | 0.37 |
| 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 Loyola Marymount University, approximately 13% 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 7 similar programs in CA. Actual outcomes may vary.