Analysis
Based on the national landscape of Security Science and Technology programs, Rowan's estimated outcomes—$39,252 in first-year earnings against $24,324 in debt—suggest this program aligns with typical performance across the country. The 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates would dedicate roughly eight months of their first year's salary to clearing their student loans, a manageable burden that falls comfortably within the threshold most financial experts consider reasonable.
The challenge here is specificity. Security Science and Technology encompasses everything from corporate cybersecurity to physical security management to emergency preparedness, and career trajectories vary dramatically depending on which path graduates pursue. The $39,252 starting point reflects a national median that may obscure significant variation—some security roles launch into well-paying corporate positions while others start in lower-tier compliance or administrative work. With only 196 programs nationwide offering this degree and limited reporting, parents should investigate exactly what specializations Rowan emphasizes and where their recent graduates actually land jobs.
The debt level is reasonable, but the real question is whether this specific degree opens doors that alternative paths—such as criminal justice programs, IT certifications, or even direct industry entry—might not. For families comfortable with moderate debt and confident their student will pursue the high-value niches within security fields, these estimates suggest a workable investment, though the lack of program-specific data means you're betting on Rowan matching national norms.
Where Rowan University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all security science and technology bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Security Science and Technology bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $15,700 | $39,252* | — | $24,324* | — | |
| $45,550 | $70,586* | $80,946 | $29,080* | 0.41 | |
| $34,940 | $69,872* | $80,106 | $27,000* | 0.39 | |
| $5,656 | $58,249* | — | $20,693* | 0.36 | |
| $42,304 | $55,259* | — | $19,500* | 0.35 | |
| $42,204 | $55,259* | — | $19,500* | 0.35 | |
| 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 Rowan University, approximately 31% 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 national median of 41 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.