Security Science and Technology at Robert Morris University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Robert Morris University's Security Science and Technology program produces graduates earning nearly $70,000 right out of school—78% more than the national median for this field and among the top 5% of programs nationwide. That's exceptional performance for a program at a school with a 91% acceptance rate. However, the state-level picture adds nuance: within Pennsylvania, these outcomes land at the 60th percentile, suggesting the program benefits from Pennsylvania's strong security industry rather than standing out dramatically within the state.
The financial equation works cleanly. At $27,000 in median debt—actually lower than both state and national medians for this program—graduates face a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.39. That means debt represents less than five months of first-year salary, well below troublesome thresholds. Earnings climb steadily to over $80,000 by year four, reinforcing that this field offers genuine career progression rather than hitting an early ceiling.
For parents weighing in-state options, this program delivers strong returns without excessive debt, particularly if your student is interested in cybersecurity, homeland security, or related fields where Pennsylvania employers are clearly hiring. The gap between this program's national ranking and its state ranking shouldn't raise concerns—it simply reflects that Pennsylvania has several solid programs in this space. At this price point and with these outcomes, Robert Morris offers a reliable path into a growing field.
Where Robert Morris University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all security science and technology bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Robert Morris University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Robert Morris University graduates earn $70k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all security science and technology bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Security Science and Technology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (15 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robert Morris University | $69,872 | $80,106 | $27,000 | 0.39 |
| Chestnut Hill College | $46,079 | — | $35,000 | 0.76 |
| National Median | $39,252 | — | $25,000 | 0.64 |
Other Security Science and Technology Programs in Pennsylvania
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chestnut Hill College Philadelphia | $39,410 | $46,079 | $35,000 |
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Robert Morris University, approximately 22% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.