Management Information Systems and Services at University of Idaho

University of Idaho's MIS program stands out for one crucial reason: its graduates carry exceptionally low debt. At $17,457, this is less than half the national median for MIS programs, placing it in the 95th percentile nationally for affordability. For families worried about six-figure debt loads, this program offers a genuine alternative—you're looking at monthly payments under $200 instead of the $300-400 typical for this field.

The earnings picture requires more context. Starting at $52,920 is admittedly below the national median of $59,490, but that gap shrinks considerably as graduates gain experience—earnings jump 39% to $73,533 by year four. That trajectory suggests employers value what Idaho's graduates learn, even if entry-level positions pay less (likely reflecting Idaho's lower cost of living compared to major tech hubs). Within Idaho, this program actually performs decently, ranking at the 60th percentile statewide.

However, treat these numbers carefully: Idaho only has one school offering this bachelor's program, and the sample size here is small. The debt advantage is real and substantial, but whether the earnings trajectory holds for your child depends on factors these statistics can't capture. For families prioritizing graduation without crushing debt over maximizing first-year salary, this program delivers that core value—especially if your student plans to stay in the region rather than compete for coastal tech jobs immediately.