Analysis
With peer programs in Michigan suggesting first-year earnings around $63,000 and estimated debt of $26,500, this MIS program appears to track the state median for this degree—a reasonable starting point, though not exceptional. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42 suggests manageable repayment, with monthly loan obligations likely running around $300, or roughly 6% of gross income. That's workable for most graduates, though it leaves less cushion than programs at Michigan's top-tier schools, where Central Michigan and UM-Dearborn graduates earn 8-16% more in their first year.
The real question is whether Madonna delivers similar outcomes to what these comparable-program estimates suggest. With a 93% admission rate and average SAT scores well below selective peers, the university serves a broader student population—which can mean either exceptional value for students who might not gain admission elsewhere, or variable career preparation depending on how much emphasis the program places on internships, technical certifications, and employer connections. MIS degrees generally offer solid employment prospects, as IT skills remain in demand, but the salary range among Michigan schools shows that program quality matters significantly.
If your student has the credentials to attend Central Michigan or Oakland, those programs show measurably better early outcomes. If Madonna represents the most accessible option, verify that the program emphasizes hands-on skills, includes database management and systems analysis coursework, and maintains active employer partnerships—factors that often separate strong MIS programs from those that struggle to place graduates.
Where Madonna University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all management information systems and services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Michigan
Management Information Systems and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Michigan (18 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $27,360 | $62,697* | — | $26,581* | — | |
| $14,190 | $68,088* | $82,839 | $27,000* | 0.40 | |
| $14,944 | $65,211* | $82,433 | $25,610* | 0.39 | |
| $14,694 | $65,128* | $72,305 | $26,000* | 0.40 | |
| $18,392 | $60,266* | — | $28,000* | 0.46 | |
| $14,297 | $59,352* | $74,781 | $23,250* | 0.39 | |
| 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 Madonna University, approximately 30% 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 6 similar programs in MI. Actual outcomes may vary.