Security Science and Technology at University of Providence

A Security Science and Technology bachelor's degree from University of Providence carries an estimated $27,000 in debt—slightly above the national median for this field—while peer programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $39,000. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.69 means graduates would need roughly eight months of their first year's salary to cover student loans, which falls within a manageable range for a four-year degree. However, these figures come from comparing this program to similar security programs nationwide since this university's graduate sample was too small for the Department of Education to report specific outcomes.

The concerning part isn't the debt load itself but rather what similar security programs produce in terms of earning potential. At $39,000, comparable programs place graduates well below what many technical bachelor's degrees command, despite the field's specialized nature. For a family considering this investment, the question becomes whether this particular credential opens doors that justify both the debt and the opportunity cost of four years. Security roles exist across private and public sectors, but many entry points don't require a specialized bachelor's degree—they accept criminal justice, IT, or even general business backgrounds.

Since University of Providence is the only school in Montana offering this specific program, families lack in-state alternatives for comparison. Before committing, investigate what actual employers in your target region hire for and whether this specific credential gives your child a meaningful edge over less expensive paths into security work.