Information Science/Studies at Westfield State University

The small sample size here matters—with under 30 graduates, a few career paths could skew these numbers significantly. That said, Westfield State's Information Science program shows graduates earning roughly $16,000 less than the Massachusetts median for this field. Among the seven Massachusetts schools offering this program, it ranks in just the 25th percentile, trailing not only obvious competitors like Boston College but also UMass-Lowell by $12,000 at the one-year mark.

The silver lining is manageable debt: $20,381 is about $6,000 below the national median, giving graduates a favorable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39. Students can realistically pay off these loans within a few years. However, the earnings growth from $52,728 to $56,413 over four years—just 7%—suggests limited upward mobility compared to peers at other Massachusetts programs who start higher and typically see steeper trajectories in the tech sector.

For families seeking an affordable entry into information science, Westfield delivers low debt without crushing financial burden. But if your child is competitive enough to access UMass-Lowell or similar programs, the $12,000+ earnings difference annually makes those worth serious consideration, especially since in-state tuition keeps costs comparable. The program works best for students who need the accessibility of an 81% admission rate and plan to supplement their degree with certifications or strategic internships.