Analysis
Based on comparable hospitality programs in South Carolina, Bob Jones appears positioned near the middle of the pack—estimating around $35,600 in first-year earnings against roughly $24,500 in debt. That 0.69 debt-to-earnings ratio falls comfortably within manageable territory, though the program doesn't show the premium commanded by College of Charleston or USC-Columbia graduates, who start $1,000-$4,000 higher.
The challenge with hospitality management is less about the debt load than the ceiling. Similar programs across South Carolina consistently produce starting salaries in the mid-$30,000s, which means rapid advancement becomes crucial. In this field, location matters enormously—graduates who land roles in high-volume tourism markets or upscale resort areas typically outpace those in smaller markets. The question is whether Bob Jones' network and internship connections open doors to those higher-paying opportunities, or whether graduates face the same flat starting point as peer programs without the geographic or industry advantages.
For families considering this investment, the estimated numbers suggest a workable but modest financial picture. The debt burden won't be crushing, but the earnings trajectory will depend heavily on your child's hustle, willingness to relocate, and ability to move quickly into management roles. If they're passionate about hospitality and understand the grind required to advance beyond entry-level wages, the fundamentals here are solid enough—just don't expect the degree alone to deliver outsized returns.
Where Bob Jones University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all hospitality administration/management bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in South Carolina
Hospitality Administration/Management bachelors's programs at peer institutions in South Carolina (7 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $23,400 | $35,597* | — | $24,462* | — | |
| $12,978 | $39,688* | $45,859 | $23,448* | 0.59 | |
| $12,688 | $36,690* | $45,324 | $26,000* | 0.71 | |
| $10,730 | $34,503* | $41,192 | $23,989* | 0.70 | |
| $11,640 | $34,300* | $46,200 | $25,000* | 0.73 | |
| National Median | — | $34,675* | — | $23,920* | 0.69 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with hospitality administration/management graduates
Facilities Managers
Security Managers
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Entertainment and Recreation Managers, Except Gambling
Lodging Managers
Food Service Managers
Meeting, Convention, and Event Planners
Gambling Managers
First-Line Supervisors of Gambling Services Workers
Personal Service Managers, All Other
Fitness and Wellness Coordinators
Spa Managers
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 Bob Jones 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 4 similar programs in SC. Actual outcomes may vary.