Management Information Systems and Services at Rasmussen University-Illinois

Rasmussen's MIS program delivers outcomes that significantly outpace the national average—placing in the 95th percentile nationally—though the flat earnings trajectory from year one to year four suggests graduates may hit their ceiling quickly. With starting pay around $46,300 and debt just over $27,000, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59 is manageable, especially considering that nearly two-thirds of students receive Pell grants. The relatively low debt burden compared to peers (25th percentile nationally) makes this accessible for working-class families looking for practical tech credentials.

The catch is what happens after graduation. Earnings essentially stall between years one and four, which is unusual for tech-adjacent fields where experience typically commands higher pay. This could reflect the limitations of an associate's degree in a field where bachelor's holders dominate advancement opportunities, or it might indicate that graduates are finding steady but not progressive employment. Among Illinois programs, this lands at the 60th percentile—solid but not exceptional for in-state students who have other options.

For families seeking immediate employment with contained debt, this program delivers. The strong first-year outcomes and reasonable borrowing make it a practical choice, particularly for students who need to start earning quickly. Just understand that career growth may require additional credentials down the road—this associate's degree opens doors but may not unlock many more beyond that initial entry point.