Analysis
Pennsylvania's information science programs typically generate first-year earnings around $61,000, putting this field squarely in the middle of tech-adjacent careers—not quite software engineering money, but substantially above most liberal arts outcomes. Based on peer programs at similar Pennsylvania institutions, University of Scranton graduates would likely carry about $28,000 in debt, creating a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 that should allow for comfortable repayment within a few years.
The challenge here is the wide variance among Pennsylvania programs. Top performers like Albright and Drexel report outcomes near $80,000, while others cluster closer to $60,000. Without actual data from Scranton's program specifically, it's unclear whether the university's focus and industry connections push graduates toward the higher end or keep them near the state median. The program's small graduate cohort—too small for the Department of Education to report publicly—could signal either intimate, well-mentored instruction or limited employer awareness and recruitment.
For families comfortable with moderate debt and drawn to Scranton's Jesuit values, the estimated numbers suggest reasonable value compared to the national benchmark of $58,651. But if maximizing tech career earnings is the priority, verified outcomes from larger Pennsylvania programs like Drexel provide more certainty about return on investment.
Where University of Scranton Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (19 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $52,309 | $61,163* | — | $28,063* | — | |
| $28,794 | $80,329* | $80,037 | $36,196* | 0.45 | |
| $60,663 | $78,755* | $93,411 | $29,125* | 0.37 | |
| $13,920 | $71,167* | $78,793 | $53,250* | 0.75 | |
| $34,940 | $62,375* | — | $27,000* | 0.43 | |
| $14,646 | $59,951* | $74,870 | $27,000* | 0.45 | |
| 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 Scranton, approximately 22% 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 median of 8 similar programs in PA. Actual outcomes may vary.