Information Science/Studies at Ottawa University-Ottawa

Information science programs at Kansas schools suggest first-year earnings around $56,400, which would put Ottawa University roughly on par with state peers like Fort Hays State. The estimated debt load of $27,000—derived from similar-sized institutions offering this degree nationally—sits slightly above the state median but translates to manageable monthly payments of roughly $275 over ten years. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.47, graduates would likely dedicate about 6% of their gross income to loan payments, a sustainable threshold by most standards.

The challenge here is uncertainty. Ottawa's actual outcomes remain unpublished due to small class sizes, so these projections rest on what comparable programs produce elsewhere. The range among Kansas schools is significant—Rasmussen grads start $16,000 higher than those from Emporia State—and without knowing where Ottawa's specific strengths lie (curriculum focus, internship networks, employer relationships), it's difficult to predict which end of that spectrum applies. The national benchmark of $58,600 suggests Information Science degrees generally perform adequately, but local program quality varies considerably.

For parents comfortable with modest debt and willing to accept some uncertainty about outcomes, this appears financially viable if not exceptional. However, if Ottawa provides detailed placement rates or employer partnerships specific to their Information Science program, that information would matter more than these state-level estimates in judging whether this investment makes sense for your family.