Business Administration, Management and Operations at Azusa Pacific University

Azusa Pacific's business program produces graduates who earn less than California's median for this degree, placing it in the 40th percentile statewide—a significant gap given that California business grads typically start around $49,500. While first-year earnings of $47,681 lag behind state peers, the program shows impressive momentum with 26% earnings growth by year four, reaching nearly $60,000. That growth trajectory suggests graduates develop skills that become more valuable with experience, though they're starting from a lower base than most California business programs.

The debt picture offers some relief: at $24,891, graduates owe less than both national and state medians, creating a manageable 0.52 debt-to-earnings ratio. This is notably lower debt than you'd find at nearby private competitors, though it's still slightly above California's typical $21,000 for business degrees. The moderate sample size means these figures are reasonably reliable, though individual outcomes will vary.

Here's the practical reality: Your child will likely start behind peers from Cal Poly SLO ($71,876) or even many CSU campuses, but won't be crushed by debt. If they're committed to staying in California's competitive job market, understand they'll need to work harder early in their career to close that earnings gap. The strong growth rate suggests it's possible, but they're not getting the initial launching pad that California's stronger business programs provide.