Analysis
Maryland's Information Science programs cluster in a tight range, and this program appears to land right in the middle of that pack. Similar programs in the state typically produce first-year earnings around $62,300, which matches the national median for this field. The estimated $26,700 in debt suggests a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43—workable territory where graduates could reasonably expect to manage their loans on an entry-level salary.
What's harder to assess here is Stevenson's specific track record, since both the earnings and debt figures are drawn from peer institutions rather than this school's actual outcomes. The state's top performers—UMD College Park and UMBC—place graduates earning $8,000 to $10,000 more in their first year, which compounds significantly over a career. Without knowing where Stevenson's graduates actually fall in that range, you're essentially betting on the state average.
The fundamentals look sound: Information Science degrees generally lead to stable employment, and the estimated debt load won't be crushing even at median earnings. But if Stevenson's actual outcomes skew toward the lower end of Maryland programs, or if their career services don't match what larger universities offer, that average picture could look less appealing. For a private university with an 83% acceptance rate, you'd want to confirm their specific job placement rates and starting salary data before committing, especially when nearby public universities have documented stronger earning outcomes.
Where Stevenson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Maryland
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maryland (15 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $39,708 | $62,312* | — | $26,694* | — | |
| $7,992 | $72,140* | $85,655 | $20,806* | 0.29 | |
| $13,920 | $71,167* | $78,793 | $53,250* | 0.75 | |
| $11,505 | $70,344* | $95,042 | $20,180* | 0.29 | |
| $12,952 | $63,334* | $82,936 | $20,633* | 0.33 | |
| $10,638 | $61,290* | $75,999 | $23,250* | 0.38 | |
| 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 Stevenson University, approximately 29% 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 8 similar programs in MD. Actual outcomes may vary.