Business Administration, Management and Operations at Aspen University

Aspen University's online business program posts strong first-year earnings of nearly $55,000—about $9,000 above the national median and placing graduates in the 82nd percentile nationwide. The debt load of roughly $25,000 keeps the debt-to-earnings ratio at a manageable 0.45, meaning graduates could theoretically pay off their loans in under six months of gross income.

The Arizona comparison tells a more nuanced story. While these earnings beat the state median slightly, they trail traditional powerhouses like Embry-Riddle and Arizona State by $6,000-$12,000. That 60th percentile ranking in-state suggests this program delivers solid but not exceptional outcomes for Arizona residents. For a fully online program, though, competing near the middle of the pack against established brick-and-mortar institutions is respectable—particularly when you consider flexibility advantages that many working adults need.

The major caveat: fewer than 30 graduates in this cohort means these numbers could swing significantly with different students. If you're considering Aspen, the relatively low Pell grant percentage (13%) might indicate this attracts students with more financial resources to begin with, which could inflate outcomes. For a working adult seeking flexibility, this program appears functional with reasonable debt, but families with traditional students might find better value at ASU or other established Arizona schools.