Analysis
Information science programs in Pennsylvania show a wide earnings spread, with peer schools ranging from around $60,000 to over $80,000 in first-year salaries. Based on the median of eight comparable programs in the state, Susquehanna's graduates would likely earn around $61,000—solidly middle-of-the-pack but trailing the state's top performers by $15,000 to $20,000 annually. That gap matters when you're paying private school tuition.
The estimated $28,000 in debt falls close to typical levels for Pennsylvania information science programs, producing a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46. This beats the financial profile of many liberal arts degrees, though it's worth noting that stronger programs in the state might offer both higher earnings and similar debt loads. The difference between graduating with a $60,000 starting salary versus $75,000 compounds quickly over a career, particularly in a field where initial placement often determines trajectory.
For a family considering Susquehanna, the key uncertainty is where this specific program actually falls within that $60,000-to-$80,000 range. The school's 79% admission rate and middling test scores suggest it may not command the employer recognition of peers like Drexel or Pitt. If cost is comparable across options, investigating whether Susquehanna's specific program outcomes justify choosing it over state schools or higher-performing private alternatives makes sense—especially since the figures here reflect what similar programs produce, not what Susquehanna's own graduates achieve.
Where Susquehanna University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (19 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $57,400 | $61,163* | — | $28,063* | — | |
| $28,794 | $80,329* | $80,037 | $36,196* | 0.45 | |
| $60,663 | $78,755* | $93,411 | $29,125* | 0.37 | |
| $13,920 | $71,167* | $78,793 | $53,250* | 0.75 | |
| $34,940 | $62,375* | — | $27,000* | 0.43 | |
| $14,646 | $59,951* | $74,870 | $27,000* | 0.45 | |
| 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 Susquehanna University, approximately 24% 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 PA. Actual outcomes may vary.