Analysis
Temple's MIS program produces graduates earning nearly $60,000 straight out of college, climbing to over $70,000 by year four—solid middle-of-the-pack performance that outpaces most Pennsylvania programs. While it trails Villanova and Drexel's elite outcomes, it delivers 60th percentile earnings within the state at a $27,000 debt load that's actually lower than the national median for this major. That 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than half their starting salary, a comfortable position for making loan payments while building a career.
The 19% earnings growth trajectory looks healthy, and the relatively low debt burden matters here—Temple charges significantly less than Villanova or Drexel while producing graduates who out-earn several state universities. However, the small sample size (under 30 graduates) means these numbers could shift considerably year to year. A few graduates landing exceptional jobs—or struggling to find work—can swing the averages dramatically.
For Pennsylvania families, especially those considering the state's public universities, Temple offers competitive value. You're not getting Villanova-level outcomes, but you're paying substantially less while still positioning your child ahead of most in-state alternatives. The combination of reasonable debt and decent earnings growth makes this a practical choice, assuming your child is genuinely interested in technology and business systems rather than just picking a "safe major."
Where Temple University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all management information systems and services bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Temple University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Temple University | $59,385 | $70,478 | +19% |
| Villanova University | $78,703 | $100,271 | +27% |
| Drexel University | $72,332 | $86,476 | +20% |
| Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania | $51,195 | $69,621 | +36% |
| Indiana University of Pennsylvania-Main Campus | $53,846 | $63,223 | +17% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Management Information Systems and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (25 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $22,082 | $59,385 | $70,478 | $27,000 | 0.45 | |
| $64,701 | $78,703 | $100,271 | — | — | |
| $60,663 | $72,332 | $86,476 | $29,933 | 0.41 | |
| $11,380 | $53,846 | $63,223 | $27,000 | 0.50 | |
| $13,544 | $51,195 | $69,621 | $26,900 | 0.53 | |
| $24,606 | $44,936 | — | $27,000 | 0.60 | |
| National Median | — | $59,490 | — | $24,000 | 0.40 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with management information systems and services graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Computer Programmers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
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 Temple University, approximately 30% 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.