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
Earnings Distribution
How Robert Morris University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Robert Morris University | $69,872 | $80,106 | +15% |
| Champlain College | $70,586 | $80,946 | +15% |
| Texas A&M University-College Station | $38,792 | $59,784 | +54% |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | $47,496 | $58,125 | +22% |
| Farmingdale State College | $38,789 | $57,524 | +48% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Security Science and Technology bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (15 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $34,940 | $69,872 | $80,106 | $27,000 | 0.39 | |
| $39,410 | $46,079 | — | $35,000 | 0.76 | |
| National Median | — | $39,252 | — | $25,000 | 0.64 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with security science and technology graduates
Information Security Analysts
Geographers
Financial Examiners
Geography Teachers, Postsecondary
Criminal Justice and Law Enforcement Teachers, Postsecondary
Accountants and Auditors
Cartographers and Photogrammetrists
Detectives and Criminal Investigators
Police Identification and Records Officers
Intelligence Analysts
Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers
Customs and Border Protection Officers
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.