Computer Systems Analysis at University of Illinois Springfield

A debt load around $24,635 for a bachelor's in computer systems analysis compares favorably to what similar programs typically carry—peer institutions nationally report median debt nearly double that figure at $46,000. When paired with first-year earnings that national data suggests hover around $52,500, UIS appears to offer a relatively lean entry into this field. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.47 means graduates would owe less than half their annual salary, a manageable starting point compared to many technical programs.

The challenge is that these figures are estimates drawn from national and institutional peers rather than actual UIS outcomes, so there's uncertainty about whether this specific program delivers on that promise. Illinois has only a handful of schools offering this degree, and the one with reported data—DeVry—shows earnings right in line with the state median at $51,805. That consistency across the limited state data is reassuring, but it doesn't tell you whether UIS specifically prepares graduates as effectively for the job market.

The financial picture looks reasonable on paper: moderate debt paired with solid tech-sector earnings. But you're making a decision with incomplete information about this particular program's track record. If your student is drawn to UIS for other reasons—location, campus fit, cost of attendance—the estimated numbers suggest the degree shouldn't be a financial dealbreaker. Just recognize you're placing some faith in a program without verified graduate outcomes.