Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management at University of Central Missouri

University of Central Missouri's IT management program produces graduates earning about $5,400 less than the typical Missouri program in this field—ranking in just the 40th percentile statewide. With first-year earnings of $57,502, graduates trail behind peers at Lindenwood and Southeast Missouri State, though they carry comparable debt loads around $25,000. The 0.44 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in about five months of gross income, but the relatively modest starting salary limits how quickly meaningful financial progress happens.

The program sits squarely in the middle nationally (47th percentile) but falls below Missouri's stronger-than-average IT management offerings. Given that in-state tuition makes UCM accessible and the school serves a significant Pell-eligible population, this isn't necessarily a poor choice—but families should understand their graduate will likely start behind peers from other Missouri programs. The earnings gap matters when you're trying to save for a home, build emergency funds, or invest early in retirement accounts.

For Missouri families weighing IT management programs, this is a functional but not exceptional option. If your student can access Lindenwood or Southeast Missouri State at comparable cost, those appear to offer better starting positions in the job market. UCM works as a backup, but shouldn't be the first choice when higher-earning alternatives exist within the state system.