Business/Commerce at Bellevue University
Bachelor's Degree
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
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How Bellevue University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Bellevue University graduates earn $58k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all business/commerce bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Nebraska
Business/Commerce bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Nebraska (6 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bellevue University | $58,128 | $62,220 | $27,025 | 0.46 |
| Concordia University-Nebraska | $51,159 | $50,167 | $25,250 | 0.49 |
| Nebraska Wesleyan University | $49,372 | $64,443 | $26,750 | 0.54 |
| Midland University | $44,021 | $45,164 | $27,000 | 0.61 |
| National Median | $47,506 | — | $26,000 | 0.55 |
Other Business/Commerce Programs in Nebraska
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Nebraska schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concordia University-Nebraska Seward | $39,330 | $51,159 | $25,250 |
| Nebraska Wesleyan University Lincoln | $41,658 | $49,372 | $26,750 |
| Midland University Fremont | $40,270 | $44,021 | $27,000 |
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.