Security Science and Technology at Washburn University

Washburn's Security Science and Technology program sits squarely in the middle of national outcomes, with first-year earnings of $39,252 matching the national median exactly. Within Kansas, though, graduates fare slightly better—landing in the 60th percentile among the state's five programs offering this degree. The $21,638 in median debt is actually lower than the national average, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.55 that most graduates could reasonably manage.

The tradeoff here is straightforward: you're looking at modest but stable starting pay in a specialized field, without the crushing debt loads that sometimes accompany niche programs. Security professionals often see earnings growth as they gain certifications and experience, so that $39K starting point isn't the full story. However, the small sample size (fewer than 30 graduates tracked) means these figures could swing considerably year to year.

For families weighing this program, the key question is whether your student is genuinely committed to the security field. If they are, Washburn offers a reasonable entry point with manageable debt. But if they're uncertain about the career path, the specialized nature of this degree—and its middling starting salary—makes it a riskier bet than a more versatile major with similar costs.