Analysis
At just over $50,000 in first-year earnings, University of North Georgia's Information Science program falls below both national and state medians—landing in the 27th percentile nationally and 40th percentile within Georgia. While it sits near the middle of Georgia's pack, top in-state alternatives like Kennesaw State and Georgia Southern offer $13,000 to $14,000 more in starting salary. That gap matters significantly early in a career when compound earnings growth begins.
The financial structure itself is sound: a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 means graduates carry reasonable debt that shouldn't overwhelm their budgets. At $20,815, borrowers owe about $8,000 less than the state median and $5,000 less than the national average. For a family prioritizing affordable access to a tech-adjacent degree, this combination delivers manageable risk even if the earnings upside is limited compared to peers.
The practical calculus comes down to alternatives and career goals. If your student is drawn to UNG for location, campus culture, or specific program features, the debt burden won't create financial hardship—but they're likely leaving money on the table compared to larger public universities nearby. If maximizing early earnings potential matters most, Kennesaw State's significantly higher outcomes warrant serious consideration despite any differences in campus experience or commute.
Where University of North Georgia Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of North Georgia graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,009 | $50,539 | — | $20,815 | 0.41 | |
| $13,920 | $71,167 | $78,793 | $53,250 | 0.75 | |
| $5,786 | $63,986 | $70,361 | $25,750 | 0.40 | |
| $5,905 | $52,435 | $71,263 | $29,000 | 0.55 | |
| $6,007 | $51,888 | — | $25,500 | 0.49 | |
| $5,498 | $46,840 | — | $27,000 | 0.58 | |
| 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 North Georgia, approximately 28% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 42 graduates with reported earnings and 39 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.