Management Information Systems and Services at University of Arkansas at Monticello

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 suggests manageable financial footing for this bachelor's degree, though the specifics remain uncertain. Based on comparable MIS programs nationally, first-year earnings around $59,490 paired with roughly $23,000 in debt would mean graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under five months of gross income—a solid foundation for a tech-focused business degree. However, the only Arkansas program with reported data shows lower earnings ($54,913) and significantly higher debt ($35,094), creating a less favorable 0.64 ratio. Without knowing where UAM actually falls on that spectrum, parents face real uncertainty about what their child's financial outcome might look like.

The field itself offers clear advantages: MIS sits at the intersection of business and technology, typically leading to roles in systems analysis, database administration, or IT project management. Nearly half of UAM students receive Pell grants, suggesting the program serves students who particularly need employment outcomes to justify the investment. If UAM's actual figures track closer to the encouraging national estimates, this could be a reasonable path. If they mirror the tougher Arkansas reality, the value proposition weakens considerably.

Given the data gap, parents should directly ask UAM's career services office for placement rates and starting salaries among recent MIS graduates. The degree type has merit, but understanding this specific program's track record—not just peer benchmarks—matters when committing to four years and significant debt.