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Pennsylvania's most affordable Information Science/Studies programs reveal a stark divide between public and private options, with University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown offering the lowest net cost at $18,952 while some private schools exceed $30,000. The 19 programs across the state prepare graduates for Pennsylvania's tech-heavy job market, where major employers like Comcast and UPMC increasingly rely on information specialists to manage vast data operations. Earnings potential varies significantly, ranging from $45,145 to $70,829, with Strayer University graduates commanding the highest salaries at $65,355 despite the school's for-profit status. Public universities dominate the most affordable tier, with Slippery Rock University charging in-state students just $10,507 while maintaining a solid 66% graduation rate.
19
Programs
$18,952 – $38,428
Net Price Range
$58,996
Avg. Program Earnings
68.2%
Avg. Graduation Rate

19 Information Science/Studies Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $18,952 $14,646 53.4% 97.4%
2 $19,524 $10,507 65.9% 74.3%
3 $21,360 $13,920
4 $21,664 $28,794 42.2% 84.9%
5 $22,746 $36,864 43.5% 82.3%
6 $23,206 $37,951 69.5% 80.9%
7 $25,747 $34,940 65.6% 93.8%
8 $26,198 $36,842 77.1% 81.1%
9 $26,539 $57,400 74.1% 76.7%
10 $27,663 $56,402 68.9% 76.2%
11 $27,700 $42,286 60.3% 94.1%
12 $28,163 $45,683 68.2% 88.9%
13 $29,464 $28,550 64.5% 69.7%
14 $30,074 $21,524 84.3% 49.1%
15 $30,470 $53,638 63.5% 87.7%
16 $30,528 $52,309 80.8% 84.4%
17 $33,549 $62,180 89.2% 37.0%
18 $35,487 $51,340 79.8% 88.7%
19 $38,428 $60,663 77.1% 79.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown the cheapest option for Information Science studies?

University of Pittsburgh-Johnstown offers the lowest net cost at $18,952 for Information Science programs, with in-state students paying just $14,646. The school maintains a 53% graduation rate and graduates earn a median of $58,479, making it an affordable entry point into Pennsylvania's information sector. Its 97% acceptance rate means most qualified applicants gain admission to this budget-friendly program.

How do public versus private Information Science programs compare in Pennsylvania?

Public universities clearly dominate the affordable end, with Pitt-Johnstown at $18,952 and Slippery Rock at $19,524 net cost. Private schools start around $21,664 at Albright College and can reach over $30,000 at institutions like Widener University. However, some private programs like Elizabethtown College achieve higher graduation rates of 77%, potentially justifying their higher costs.

Does Strayer University's high earnings justify its costs for Information Science majors?

Strayer University graduates earn the highest median salary at $65,355, significantly above the state average of $56,000 for Information Science majors. However, students graduate with $40,250 in debt, the highest among schools reporting debt data. The for-profit institution charges $13,920 for in-state tuition, making the earning potential attractive despite the debt burden.

Where do Pennsylvania Information Science graduates find the best job opportunities?

Pennsylvania's healthcare, finance, and technology sectors offer strong employment prospects for Information Science graduates. Major employers like UPMC, Comcast, and pharmaceutical companies regularly hire information specialists to manage data systems and digital infrastructure. The state's median earnings range of $45,145 to $70,829 reflects the growing demand for these skills across multiple industries.

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