Security Science and Technology at Thomas More University

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69 sits in manageable territory, but the underlying numbers tell a tighter story. Based on comparable Security Science and Technology programs nationwide, first-year earnings around $39,000 against an estimated $27,000 in debt means your child would be dedicating roughly two-thirds of their first year's salary to what they borrowed. That's workable if they're disciplined about repayment, but it leaves little cushion for the unexpected expenses that come with launching a career.

The real question is whether this specific program delivers advantages that justify the investment when Kentucky hosts only three such programs statewide. Thomas More's 97% admission rate and modest SAT profile suggest accessibility over selectivity, which matters if your child needs a flexible entry point into this field. However, without actual outcomes data for Thomas More graduates—these figures come from peer programs nationally—you're making a bet on whether this particular school's connections, curriculum, and faculty match the performance of similar programs elsewhere.

The practical consideration: if your child can minimize borrowing below that $27,000 estimate through scholarships or part-time work, the math improves considerably. But banking on first-year earnings in the low $40,000s means they'll need a clear plan for how this credential opens doors in security—whether corporate, government, or technology sectors—before committing to the debt load.