Analysis
The University of Utah's Information Science program launches graduates into solid starting salaries—$70,833 puts them about $12,000 ahead of the national typical graduate in this field. What's even more compelling is the trajectory: earnings jump to over $90,000 by year four, a 28% increase that suggests real career momentum. Among Utah's limited options for this degree (only four schools offer it), this program sits squarely in the middle for earnings, though it carries notably more debt than the state median of $17,599.
The $24,000 in debt translates to just one-third of first-year income, which is manageable territory. Students are essentially betting on strong initial placement and steady progression—a bet that appears to be paying off based on the four-year data. Given the school's high admission rate and accessible tuition structure for Utah residents, this represents a relatively low-risk entry point into the information economy.
The moderate sample size means some caution is warranted, but the fundamentals look sound: graduates earn more than three-quarters of their peers nationally, avoid crushing debt loads, and see meaningful salary growth in their early career years. For Utah families, this program offers a straightforward path to competitive tech-adjacent salaries without the debt burden that often accompanies similar programs elsewhere.
Where University of Utah Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all information science/studies bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Utah graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Utah | $70,833 | $90,312 | +27% |
| Boston College | $80,731 | $106,214 | +32% |
| Florida Institute of Technology | $59,368 | $101,605 | +71% |
| Utah Valley University | $79,918 | $86,824 | +9% |
| Utah State University | $61,896 | $78,628 | +27% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Utah
Information Science/Studies bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Utah (4 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of UtahSalt Lake City | $9,315 | $70,833 | $90,312 | $24,041 | 0.34 |
 Utah Valley UniversityOrem | $6,270 | $79,918 | $86,824 | $17,599 | 0.22 |
 Utah State UniversityLogan | $9,228 | $61,896 | $78,628 | $14,413 | 0.23 |
| 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 Utah, approximately 20% 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 81 graduates with reported earnings and 63 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.