Information Science/Studies at Utah State University

Utah State's Information Science program shows strong earnings momentum with a manageable debt load, though it trails other Utah options. Graduates start at nearly $62,000—above the national median—and see robust 27% growth to reach nearly $79,000 by year four. More importantly, they leave with just $14,413 in debt, putting the debt-to-earnings ratio at an exceptionally low 0.23. That's less than three months' salary in debt, among the lowest you'll find for any tech-adjacent program.

The catch is state-level competition. At the 40th percentile among Utah's Information Science programs, this lags behind both University of Utah ($71k) and Utah Valley ($80k) in early earnings, though the earnings trajectory suggests graduates catch up over time. Still, when you're comparing in-state options at similar price points, those faster starts elsewhere matter.

For families prioritizing low debt over maximum starting salary, this program delivers. The combination of minimal borrowing and solid six-figure potential by mid-career makes the return on investment work, even if your student could earn $10-15k more initially at UVU or U of U. The growth pattern suggests these graduates are developing marketable skills that command higher pay as they gain experience.