Analysis
Bellevue University's business program punches above its weight nationally but tells a more nuanced story within Nebraska. While graduates earn $58,128 in their first year—placing them in the 95th percentile among all business programs nationwide—they sit at the 60th percentile within Nebraska. This isn't disappointing; it simply reflects that Nebraska's business programs collectively perform well. Among six programs in the state, Bellevue ranks second for earnings, trailing only Concordia by about $7,000 but significantly ahead of other competitors.
The financial fundamentals look solid. At $27,025, debt levels are nearly identical to both state and national medians, while first-year earnings exceed the national median by more than $10,000. The 0.46 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly half their annual salary—manageable territory for most borrowers. Earnings growth to $62,220 by year four (7% increase) is modest but steady, suggesting the degree provides stable career footing rather than explosive trajectory.
For Nebraska families, this represents practical value: your child gets above-average earning power at average debt levels. The program serves a substantial population (including 29% Pell recipients) while delivering results that compare favorably to more expensive private alternatives. If your student plans to work in Nebraska after graduation, Bellevue offers strong regional connections without the premium price tag.
Where Bellevue University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/commerce bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Bellevue University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bellevue University | $58,128 | $62,220 | +7% |
| New York University | $77,828 | $115,546 | +48% |
| Nebraska Wesleyan University | $49,372 | $64,443 | +31% |
| Concordia University-Nebraska | $51,159 | $50,167 | -2% |
| Midland University | $44,021 | $45,164 | +3% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Nebraska
Business/Commerce bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nebraska (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $8,886 | $58,128 | $62,220 | $27,025 | 0.46 | |
| $39,330 | $51,159 | $50,167 | $25,250 | 0.49 | |
| $41,658 | $49,372 | $64,443 | $26,750 | 0.54 | |
| $40,270 | $44,021 | $45,164 | $27,000 | 0.61 | |
| National Median | — | $47,506 | — | $26,000 | 0.55 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/commerce graduates
Sales Managers
Industrial Production Managers
Quality Control Systems Managers
Geothermal Production Managers
Biofuels Production Managers
Biomass Power Plant Managers
Hydroelectric Production Managers
Construction Managers
Administrative Services Managers
Facilities Managers
Security Managers
Chief Executives
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At Bellevue University, approximately 29% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 215 graduates with reported earnings and 252 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.