Analysis
Similar programs across Kansas suggest this MIS degree produces solid returns relative to its estimated debt load. With first-year earnings around $60,144 against roughly $24,119 in debt, graduates would need to allocate about five months of gross income to cover their borrowing—a manageable ratio that positions them well for financial stability early in their careers. The jump to $73,204 by year four indicates meaningful salary progression in the tech sector.
What makes this pathway particularly appealing is how these estimated outcomes align with Kansas State and University of Kansas—the state's flagship institutions—while Wichita State maintains a 95% admission rate. Comparable MIS programs statewide cluster tightly around $60,000 in starting pay, and this estimate matches both the state and national medians exactly. You're looking at typical outcomes for this field without the selectivity barriers that often accompany peer programs.
The tech talent shortage in Kansas continues to drive strong demand for MIS graduates, and the debt-to-earnings picture here reflects genuine value. While the specific figures for Wichita State are estimated from peer institutions, the consistency across Kansas MIS programs—and the confirmed $73,204 four-year mark—suggests graduates enter a stable regional market with clear advancement potential. For a student interested in technology careers who wants to stay in Kansas, this represents a financially sound choice.
Where Wichita State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all management information systems and services bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wichita State University | — | $73,204 | — |
| Georgetown University | $83,756 | $113,090 | +35% |
| University of Notre Dame | $78,507 | $109,779 | +40% |
| Howard University | $78,544 | $103,418 | +32% |
| University of Kansas | $60,931 | $71,526 | +17% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas
Management Information Systems and Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (10 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Wichita State UniversityWichita | $9,322 | $60,144* | $73,204 | $24,119* | — |
 University of KansasLawrence | $11,700 | $60,931* | $71,526 | $22,200* | 0.36 |
 Kansas State UniversityManhattan | $10,942 | $60,144* | — | $24,308* | 0.40 |
 Fort Hays State UniversityHays | $5,633 | $55,111* | — | $24,119* | 0.44 |
| National Median | — | $59,490* | — | $24,000* | 0.40 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with management information systems and services graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Database Architects
Data Warehousing Specialists
Computer Programmers
Computer Science Teachers, Postsecondary
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 Wichita State University, approximately 30% 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 3 similar programs in KS. Actual outcomes may vary.