Security Science and Technology at Oakland University

A first-year salary around $39,000 against estimated debt of $24,300 creates a manageable but modest financial picture for this relatively uncommon bachelor's degree. While the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.62 falls within reasonable bounds—meaning graduates could theoretically pay off loans within a year if they devoted their entire salary to it—the absolute earnings level is what matters for day-to-day budgets. At under $40,000 annually, graduates face tight margins in today's housing market, particularly in southeastern Michigan where living costs have climbed.

The challenge here is that Security Science and Technology is an emerging field without much historical data. With only five Michigan programs and fewer than 200 nationally, peer comparisons suggest starting salaries that cluster tightly in the high $30,000s to mid-$40,000s range. This consistency across programs indicates the field hasn't yet developed the earnings premium that cybersecurity or information assurance commands. The question becomes whether this bachelor's degree serves as a stepping stone—perhaps toward graduate credentials or specialized certifications that command better pay—or as a terminal degree in its own right.

Given Oakland's 70% admission rate and solid regional reputation, this program likely provides accessible entry into homeland security, emergency management, or related government roles. But families should understand they're betting on a field still defining itself professionally, where the earnings trajectory beyond year one remains uncertain based on available data.