Management Information Systems and Services at National University

National University's Management Information Systems program places graduates at the absolute top of the field—95th percentile both nationally and within California—with first-year earnings of $92,758. That's 51% above the national median and rivals elite private universities like Santa Clara. The debt load of $28,675 is remarkably manageable given these earnings, producing a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.31 that most graduates could reasonably pay down within a year or two of aggressive payments.

The concerning pattern here is the earnings trajectory: graduates see their median income drop to $85,671 by year four, an 8% decline. This suggests either that many graduates use this degree as a springboard into startup or contract work with volatile income, or that the initial placement advantage doesn't necessarily translate into long-term career momentum. Still, even at the four-year mark, earnings remain well above both state and national medians for the field.

For a student planning to work in San Diego's growing tech sector or pursue entrepreneurial opportunities, this program offers exceptional immediate value. The strong starting salary provides financial flexibility early in a career when it matters most—whether for paying down debt quickly, saving, or taking calculated risks. Just understand that the premium first-year outcomes may not follow a traditional upward trajectory.