Analysis
North Carolina's Information Science programs command strong starting salaries—the state median of $73,500 is notably higher than the national benchmark—but peer programs nationally suggest this University of Mount Olive degree might underperform that state standard. With estimated first-year earnings around $58,651 and debt of $26,694, graduates would face a manageable debt load, but they'd be earning roughly $15,000 less than what similar programs at UNC Chapel Hill or even Strayer University-North Carolina typically produce.
The 0.46 debt-to-earnings ratio looks reasonable on paper, falling below most concerning thresholds. However, the gap between these estimated outcomes and what North Carolina employers actually pay Information Science graduates elsewhere raises questions about market positioning. At a school where nearly half of students receive Pell grants, an additional $15,000 in annual earnings could make a meaningful difference in post-graduation financial stability.
If you're considering this program, recognize you're working with limited outcome data—the small graduate sample means we're extrapolating from national peers rather than seeing this school's actual track record. The safer bet might be programs with proven North Carolina outcomes, especially given that Information Science credentials clearly command premium salaries in this state when graduates have the right preparation and connections.
Where University of Mount Olive Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in North Carolina
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in North Carolina (10 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $25,950 | $58,651* | — | $26,694* | — | |
| $8,989 | $75,834* | $90,138 | $13,294* | 0.18 | |
| $13,920 | $71,167* | $78,793 | $53,250* | 0.75 | |
| 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 University of Mount Olive, approximately 47% 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 national median of 129 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.