by our College Data Analytics Team
[General Information Science](/majors/computer-information-sciences/information-science-is/general-information-science/) programs reward a close look at where your money goes furthest. The schools below stand out for delivering a strong general information science education at a price that pays off.
College Factual analyzed 12 schools to build this 2026 ranking of the best value general information science schools.
What’s on this page:
Below are the schools that deliver the strongest value in general information science, balancing cost against outcomes.
Century College earned the #1 spot for value among general information science schools in Minnesota. Set in the suburb of White Bear Lake, Century College is a large public institution. In-state tuition and fees average $6,214. Typical student debt for general information science graduates is $21,332. General Information Science graduates of Century College earn a median of $47,502 early in their careers. Weighed against typical debt, the earnings make a compelling case for value.
Minnesota State University Moorhead came in at #2 on our 2026 list of the best value general information science schools. Minnesota State University Moorhead is a moderately-sized public school located in the suburb of Moorhead. Expect in-state tuition and fees of around $10,428. Students borrow a median of $13,773 to complete the general information science program here. Soon after graduation, general information science degree recipients from Minnesota State University Moorhead generally make around $49,625. That is a strong return on a $13,773 median debt. Roughly 59% of applicants are accepted.
Metropolitan State University is a great value for students pursuing a degree in general information science, landing the #3 spot this year. Set in the city of Saint Paul, Metropolitan State University is a moderately-sized public institution. Expect in-state tuition and fees of around $9,840. Typical student debt for general information science graduates is $25,000. Early-career general information science graduates make about $64,382. Set against $25,000 in median debt, that is a healthy payoff. Roughly 99% of applicants are accepted.
Students looking for strong value in general information science will find it at Saint Marys University Of Minnesota, which ranked #4. Set in the town of Winona, Saint Marys University Of Minnesota is a moderately-sized private not-for-profit institution. In-state tuition and fees average $45,080. Typical student debt for general information science graduates is $21,999. General Information Science graduates of Saint Marys University Of Minnesota earn a median of $25,534 early in their careers. Weighed against typical debt, the earnings make a compelling case for value. Roughly 93% of applicants are accepted.
This list is compiled by College Factual (MF_RANKING_2025), 2026 edition. The methodology weighs the cost of a degree against the earnings graduates go on to achieve, drawn primarily from the U.S. Department of Education (IPEDS and College Scorecard).
Ranking method: College Major Best Value · 12 schools evaluated.
*Averages shown above reflect the top 4 ranked schools only.
More about our data sources and methodologies.