Management Information Systems and Services at University of Northwestern-St Paul

A Management Information Systems degree typically launches graduates into solid-paying tech roles, and comparable programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $59,490. However, Northwestern-St Paul's estimated debt load of $26,581 sits slightly above both the national median ($24,000) and Minnesota average ($25,868) for this field. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45, graduates would need to allocate roughly 45% of their first-year salary to clear this debt in twelve months—manageable, but not exceptional for a tech-focused business degree.

The school's 92% admission rate and relatively modest academic profile suggest Northwestern isn't competing directly with Minnesota's top MIS programs, where graduates at Winona State earn closer to $64,600. Still, peer programs indicate this credential should provide reasonable earning potential. The concerning element is paying more in debt than typical for outcomes that align with national—not Minnesota's higher—earnings benchmarks. Minnesota's tech sector generally rewards MIS graduates well, so falling short of the state median by about $2,700 annually represents lost ground.

For families considering Northwestern specifically, the critical question is whether the estimated $26,500 in debt reflects unavoidable costs or whether comparable in-state options might deliver similar outcomes at lower cost. The numbers suggest workable economics but not standout value, particularly when other Minnesota schools appear to position graduates more competitively in the local market.