Based on U.S. Department of Education data (October 2025 release). Some figures are estimates based on similar programs — see details below.
Analysis
The University of Oklahoma's Information Science program carries an estimated $25,000 in debt, slightly below what's typical nationally for this major. Based on comparable bachelor's programs across the country, graduates can expect around $59,000 in first-year earnings—a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43 that puts borrowing at less than half of starting salary. That's manageable territory: assuming standard repayment terms, monthly loan payments would consume roughly 6-7% of gross income, leaving room for other financial goals while building experience in the field.
What makes this harder to evaluate is that both figures are estimates drawn from peer programs nationwide, not actual outcomes from OU's specific cohort. The small graduate sample (which triggers data suppression) could mean the program is new, highly selective, or simply small by design. Information science sits at the intersection of technology and data management, fields where Oklahoma's job market may offer fewer opportunities than tech-heavy states—though OU's solid reputation (1239 average SAT) could help graduates compete for remote positions or relocate if needed.
For parents weighing this investment, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable rather than exceptional value. If your child is committed to information science specifically and wants to stay in-state, OU appears viable. But given the uncertainty in these projections, it's worth investigating the program's actual placement outcomes and whether graduates typically stay in Oklahoma or move to stronger tech markets after graduation.
Where University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $9,595 | $58,651* | — | $25,000* | — | |
| $65,997 | $102,998* | — | $12,000* | 0.12 | |
| $49,600 | $98,551* | — | $24,625* | 0.25 | |
| — | $88,713* | — | $16,667* | 0.19 | |
| $17,228 | $88,515* | $99,659 | $20,875* | 0.24 | |
| $67,680 | $80,731* | $106,214 | $17,500* | 0.22 | |
| 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 Oklahoma-Norman Campus, approximately 24% 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.