Business/Commerce at Adams State University

Adams State's business program produces graduates earning $40,181 in their first year—about 7% below Colorado's median and 15% below the national average. While that places it in the 40th percentile statewide (essentially middle-of-the-pack among nine Colorado business programs), it lags significantly behind national competitors at just the 17th percentile. The debt picture is manageable at $23,624, translating to a 0.59 debt-to-earnings ratio, though you're still borrowing above the national median relative to what graduates initially earn.

The silver lining here is steady earnings growth: graduates see an 18% increase by year four, reaching $47,305. That's competitive with the national median and suggests the program builds practical skills that gain value over time. For students who can attend at in-state rates and plan to work in Colorado's smaller markets where cost of living is lower, these numbers may work fine. The program serves a substantial population of Pell grant recipients (35%), indicating it provides access to students who might not have other four-year options.

The core question is opportunity cost. Colorado offers several business programs with similar or lower debt but significantly higher starting salaries—University of Denver and Regis graduates start 14-66% higher. If your child qualifies for admission to those programs, the extra earning power likely justifies any tuition difference. Adams State makes most sense for students prioritizing proximity to Southern Colorado or needing the access this regional campus provides.