Security Science and Technology at Marymount University

A bachelor's in Security Science and Technology typically launches graduates near $39,000 in first-year earnings—a figure that struggles to justify borrowing $27,000, especially in high-cost Northern Virginia where that salary buys far less than in other parts of the state. Comparable programs in Virginia show a similar earnings pattern, with George Mason's nearby graduates starting around $42,000 and VCU's closer to $37,500. That $10,000-plus salary difference between programs matters significantly when you're managing monthly loan payments.

The debt-to-earnings ratio here sits at 0.69, meaning nearly 70% of a year's salary would go toward the borrowed amount before interest. While this isn't catastrophic territory, it becomes concerning when you factor in Arlington's cost of living. Programs with similar debt loads work better when graduates either earn substantially more or relocate to cheaper markets. Security-focused careers often require additional certifications beyond the bachelor's degree, which means potentially more debt or delayed earnings while building credentials.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether this specific path into security careers justifies both the debt and the location. If your student is set on this field, comparing the total cost here against Virginia's public options—particularly George Mason, which shows higher starting salaries in similar work—reveals meaningful differences in return on investment.