Analysis
Comparable Information Science programs in New York suggest first-year earnings around $51,000—a figure that lags both the national median of $58,651 and top NY programs like Excelsior ($88,713) and Syracuse ($73,033) by substantial margins. The estimated $26,694 in debt is close to national norms but notably higher than the NY state median of $21,365, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52 that's manageable but unremarkable given the earnings gap.
What's concerning here is the distance between Roberts Wesleyan's estimated outcomes and the stronger public options nearby. SUNY Old Westbury graduates, for instance, appear to earn $56,333—about $5,000 more annually—while SUNY schools typically carry less debt. That earnings difference compounds quickly over a career, and when you're comparing a private institution's tuition investment against public alternatives, the value equation needs to clearly favor the private school.
If your child is set on Roberts Wesleyan for community or fit reasons, understand you're likely paying a premium without a corresponding earnings boost in this field. The 40% Pell grant population suggests meaningful financial aid is available, which could narrow the debt gap considerably. But without better earnings data specific to this campus, you're essentially betting that their program matches state averages while carrying above-state-average debt—a gamble worth taking only if substantial aid materializes or other factors make this school irreplaceable.
Where Roberts Wesleyan University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (34 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $37,504 | $51,363* | — | $26,694* | — | |
| — | $88,713* | — | $16,667* | 0.19 | |
| $7,410 | $73,937* | — | $24,950* | 0.34 | |
| $63,061 | $73,033* | $84,923 | $26,694* | 0.37 | |
| $10,560 | $68,007* | $88,954 | $19,750* | 0.29 | |
| $8,379 | $56,333* | — | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $58,651* | — | $25,750* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with information science/studies graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Software Developers
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Video Game Designers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
Computer Occupations, All Other
Web Administrators
Geographic Information Systems Technologists and Technicians
Document Management Specialists
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 Roberts Wesleyan University, approximately 40% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 14 similar programs in NY. Actual outcomes may vary.