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Best Schools for Systems Science and Theory

Systems Science and Theory graduates earn a median of $45,142 within two years of graduation, ranking #87 out of 292 tracked majors — 27% above the median across all fields. There are 5 colleges nationwide with tracked earnings for this major, producing 193 recent graduates.

Where you study matters: Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn $84,393 while Marshall University graduates earn $21,508 — a $62,885 difference. Factors like location, employer networks, co-op programs, and curriculum focus drive this gap.

Early career salary growth is modest: Systems Science and Theory graduates see an average -10% increase between year 1 and year 2 post-graduation, reflecting career advancement and skill development in the first years after college.

5
Schools
$45,142
Avg. 2yr Earnings
#87
of 292 Majors
193
Graduates

Public vs Private: Systems Science and Theory

Public (3 schools)
$35,775
avg. 2yr earnings
Private (2 schools)
$59,193
avg. 2yr earnings

Private schools produce $23,418 more in early earnings on average for Systems Science and Theory graduates. Factor in tuition difference to calculate which offers better ROI.

Systems Science and Theory by State

Pennsylvania
2 schools
$59,193
Virginia
1 schools
$60,623
Illinois
1 schools
$25,194
West Virginia
1 schools
$21,508

Top Systems Science and Theory Schools by Graduate Earnings

#1
C

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · Private

$84,393
2yr Earnings
1yr: $82,123
Grads: 70
Acceptance: 11.4%
#2
J

James Madison University

Harrisonburg, VA · Public

$60,623
2yr Earnings
1yr: $57,389
Grads: 53
Acceptance: 76.3%
#3
L

La Salle University

Philadelphia, PA · Private

$33,993
2yr Earnings
1yr: $42,214
Grads: 25
Acceptance: 86.2%
#4
U

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Champaign, IL · Public

$25,194
2yr Earnings
1yr: $34,950
Grads: 45
Acceptance: 43.7%
#5
M

Marshall University

Huntington, WV · Public

$21,508
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 96.5%

Majors with Similar Earnings

Medical Illustration and Informatics $48,065 Biological/Biosystems Engineering $47,836 General Sales, Merchandising and Related Marketing Operations $47,814 Landscape Architecture $47,605 Accounting and Related Services $47,210 Agriculture, Agriculture Operations, and Related Sciences, Other $46,084

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best school for Systems Science and Theory?
Carnegie Mellon University ranks #1 for Systems Science and Theory with median graduate earnings of $84,393 within two years. There are 5 schools nationwide offering this major with tracked earnings data.
How much do Systems Science and Theory graduates earn?
Systems Science and Theory graduates earn an average of $45,142 within two years of graduation. This is 27% above the median across all majors. Earnings range from $21,508 to $84,393 depending on the school.
How hard is it to get into a top Systems Science and Theory program?
The average acceptance rate across Systems Science and Theory programs is 62.8%. The most selective program is at Carnegie Mellon University with a 11.4% acceptance rate. Competitive programs value strong math/analytical skills and relevant coursework.
Is a public or private school better for Systems Science and Theory?
Private Systems Science and Theory programs average $59,193 in early earnings vs $35,775 at public schools. Private schools lead in earnings, but cost significantly more — calculate net price before deciding.

Data updated June 2026. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings are median 2 years after graduation for bachelor's degree holders.

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