Information Science/Studies at Strayer University-West Virginia

Strayer's Information Science program shows a troubling mismatch between strong graduate outcomes and unusually high debt loads. Graduates start at $71,167—matching the national 75th percentile and the state median—but carry $53,250 in debt, more than double the national median of $25,750. For context, only 5% of similar programs nationwide saddle students with this much debt, which raises questions about whether the solid starting salary justifies the cost premium.

The 11% earnings growth to $78,793 by year four suggests reasonable career progression, and the 0.75 debt-to-earnings ratio technically falls within acceptable bounds. However, with 85% of students receiving Pell grants, this debt burden hits a population that can least afford it. West Virginia offers few alternatives (just 4 schools with this program), which may explain why students accept this debt load, but it doesn't make it easier to manage.

For parents, this is a calculated risk: your child will likely find employment at competitive wages, but they'll start their career managing substantial monthly loan payments that could limit their financial flexibility for years. If your child has less expensive in-state options at WVU or other public institutions, those merit serious consideration before committing to Strayer's price point.