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Best Value Management Information Systems and Services Colleges in Pennsylvania

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Pennsylvania's Management Information Systems and Services programs create a striking cost divide that directly impacts career outcomes. Public options like Indiana University of Pennsylvania deliver solid returns at $17,216 net cost with $49,269 median earnings, while Villanova University commands $44,876 but produces the state's highest earners at $71,947 annually. This 160% cost difference reflects the competitive market where graduates enter Pennsylvania's tech-forward economy, supporting major employers like Comcast's digital infrastructure and UPMC's healthcare technology systems. The state's 20 programs span from budget-conscious choices to premium options, with graduation rates ranging from 5.3% to 92.4%. Most striking is how private nonprofit schools dominate the higher-earning tier, with Drexel University graduates earning $65,925 despite the $38,428 net cost. Pennsylvania's solid financial sector and growing healthcare technology needs create strong demand for MIS professionals who can bridge business operations with technical solutions.
25
Programs
$12,251 – $44,876
Net Price Range
$56,060
Avg. Program Earnings
65.5%
Avg. Graduation Rate

25 Management Information Systems and Services Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $17,216 $49,269 $11,380 52.4% 91.9%
2 $17,034 $47,650 $14,630 39.6% 97.6%
3 $23,553 $49,270 $13,544 51.6% 87.8%
4 $29,219 $54,618 $22,082 74.7% 79.7%
5 $34,978 $62,154 $47,146 75.5% 87.5%
6 $38,428 $65,925 $60,663 77.1% 79.6%
7 $44,876 $71,947 $64,701 92.4% 23.4%
8 $30,074 $47,650 $21,524 84.3% 49.1%
9 $21,409 $35,570 57.9% 94.3%
10 $19,685 $24,606 59.7% 95.6%
11 $22,746 $36,864 43.5% 82.3%
12 $22,558 $41,414 71.0% 78.3%
13 $35,487 $51,340 79.8% 88.7%
14 $19,173 $41,720 72.8% 73.1%
15 $12,905 $15,060 5.3%
16 $30,314 $60,240 80.2% 65.5%
17 $30,465 $44,800 71.0% 77.2%
18 $27,663 $56,402 68.9% 76.2%
19 $29,464 $28,550 64.5% 69.7%
20 $12,251 $33,968 60.4% 77.4%
21 $23,206 $37,951 69.5% 80.9%
22 $26,198 $36,842 77.1% 81.1%
23 $25,717 $43,810 66.2% 66.3%
24 $31,671 $63,829 92.5% 11.3%
25 $24,051 $35,815 50.5% 78.5%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the massive cost gap between Pennsylvania's cheapest and most expensive MIS programs?

The cost difference spans from $12,905 at Peirce College to $44,876 at Villanova University, a 247% increase that reflects institutional positioning and resources. Public universities like Indiana University of Pennsylvania offer in-state tuition advantages at $11,380, while private institutions invest heavily in technology labs and industry partnerships. However, higher costs don't always guarantee better outcomes, as Temple University delivers competitive $54,618 median earnings at a moderate $29,219 net cost. The sweet spot often lies in public flagship programs that balance affordability with strong employer connections.

How do graduation rates correlate with program costs in Pennsylvania's MIS programs?

Peirce College shows the starkest example with just 5.3% graduation rate despite low costs, while Villanova achieves 92.4% completion at premium pricing. Most programs fall between 40-80% graduation rates, with public universities like Temple University reaching 74.7% despite moderate costs. The data suggests that institutional support systems and student preparedness matter more than price alone. Programs with graduation rates above 70% typically produce stronger employment outcomes and better return on investment.

Is the debt burden manageable for Pennsylvania MIS graduates given their earning potential?

Most Pennsylvania MIS programs keep student debt around $26,000-$29,000, creating favorable debt-to-income ratios with median earnings starting near $50,000. Indiana University of Pennsylvania graduates carry $27,000 in debt but earn $49,269, resulting in a manageable 55% debt-to-income ratio. Drexel University students face higher debt at $29,933 but command $65,925 in earnings, improving their financial position. The state's strong job market in healthcare technology and financial services helps graduates service debt while building careers.

Does attending a more selective Pennsylvania MIS program lead to better career outcomes?

Villanova University's selective 23.39% acceptance rate correlates with the highest median earnings at $71,947, suggesting selectivity can indicate program quality. However, less selective options like Temple University (79.70% acceptance) still produce strong $54,618 median earnings. University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus balances moderate selectivity at 49.14% acceptance with solid outcomes and reasonable costs. The key factor appears to be institutional resources and industry connections rather than selectivity alone.

Where do Pennsylvania's public universities rank in MIS program value compared to private options?

Public universities dominate the value proposition, with Indiana University of Pennsylvania leading at $17,216 net cost and strong $49,269 earnings. Temple University and University of Pittsburgh offer competitive outcomes with significant in-state tuition advantages at $22,082 and $21,524 respectively. While private schools like Villanova produce higher earnings, the cost differential often exceeds $20,000 annually. Public programs excel in Pennsylvania's job market where employers like UPMC and regional banks value skills over institutional prestige.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.