Analysis
Information Science programs in New York show dramatic variation in outcomes, and Union College's estimated figures land squarely in the middle—but well behind the state's top performers. Based on comparable programs in New York, first-year earnings around $51,000 are typical but trail significantly behind schools like Syracuse ($73,000) and SUNY Stony Brook ($68,000). The estimated debt of $26,700 is actually higher than New York's median for this major, making the value proposition less clear than at peer programs where debt tends to be lower.
The 0.52 debt-to-earnings ratio suggests manageable payments—around $300 monthly on a standard plan—but the context matters here. Union's admission selectivity (44% acceptance rate, 1410 SAT average) positions it as a competitive liberal arts college, yet the estimated outcomes for this program don't reflect a premium over less selective state schools. Nationally, Information Science graduates typically earn $58,000 in their first year, suggesting New York programs generally underperform the national benchmark.
For parents considering Union at this estimated debt level, the question becomes whether the small liberal arts experience justifies paying more than you might at a SUNY school for similar or potentially better career outcomes. The limited graduate sample that necessitated these estimates also means this program may be relatively small or new, which could affect networking opportunities and employer recognition in the field.
Where Union College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in New York
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (34 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $66,456 | $51,363* | — | $26,694* | — | |
| — | $88,713* | — | $16,667* | 0.19 | |
| $7,410 | $73,937* | — | $24,950* | 0.34 | |
| $63,061 | $73,033* | $84,923 | $26,694* | 0.37 | |
| $10,560 | $68,007* | $88,954 | $19,750* | 0.29 | |
| $8,379 | $56,333* | — | —* | — | |
| 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 Union College, approximately 13% 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 14 similar programs in NY. Actual outcomes may vary.