Management Information Systems and Services at McKendree University

Similar programs in Illinois suggest McKendree's Management Information Systems bachelor's generates around $68,000 in first-year earnings—placing graduates right at the state median and well above the $59,000 national benchmark. That estimated figure aligns closely with reported outcomes from DePaul and Loyola, suggesting McKendree likely competes in the same earnings tier as these larger programs. With estimated debt around $26,500, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 indicates graduates would need about five months of gross pay to cover their educational investment.

The comparison to Illinois flagships reveals both opportunity and limitation. While McKendree's program appears to perform respectably against the state median, it trails the exceptional outcomes at UIUC by roughly $9,000 annually. However, it seems positioned ahead of programs like Illinois State, which reported earnings nearly $15,000 lower. For a school with a 64% admission rate serving a substantial population of Pell Grant recipients, hitting the state median represents solid performance in a field where technical skills matter more than institutional prestige.

The modest debt burden is the deciding factor here. Even if actual earnings land somewhat below the estimated $68,000, the relatively manageable loan amount means graduates won't struggle with payments while building their careers. MIS graduates typically find employment quickly in roles that value practical skills, and McKendree's economics—based on comparable programs—suggest a reasonable path to financial stability within the field's first few years.