Business/Managerial Economics at Ball State University

Ball State's Business Economics program comes with an important caveat: the sample size is under 30 graduates, making these numbers less reliable than typical program data. That said, the available data suggests this is a middle-of-the-road option that does what it promises without much fanfare. Starting earnings of $53,319 land right at the national median, while the $27,000 debt load is notably lower than most similar programs—5th percentile nationally means only 5% of programs leave students with less debt. Among Indiana's five programs in this field, Ball State slots into the 60th percentile for earnings, essentially matching the state median.

The economics here are straightforward: graduates owe roughly half a year's salary, which is manageable territory for loan repayment. Earnings edge up 6% to $56,336 by year four, showing modest but steady growth. Nothing about this trajectory suggests red flags, but nothing screams exceptional outcomes either.

The real question for parents is whether this represents good value compared to Ball State's other business offerings or programs at Purdue or Indiana University. With 72% of applicants admitted and a third of students receiving Pell grants, Ball State serves an accessible mission. If your student is set on Business Economics specifically and wants to stay in-state, these debt levels won't create undue burden. Just remember: small sample sizes can swing dramatically year to year.