Analysis
Brescia's business program appears to track closely with typical outcomes across Kentucky, though the limited graduate sample means we're relying on statewide patterns rather than school-specific results. Similar business programs in Kentucky suggest first-year earnings around $41,300 with debt near $26,000โa debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.63 that falls within manageable territory. However, this estimate sits about $6,200 below the national median for business bachelor's degrees, meaning Kentucky business graduates generally face a regional earnings gap that affects affordability calculations.
The challenge here is Kentucky's competitive landscape. While Brescia's estimated outcomes mirror the state median, several in-state programs with reported data show significantly stronger earnings: University of Kentucky grads earn $49,400, and Sullivan University reports $56,400. That $8,000-15,000 difference in first-year earnings compounds quickly over a career. For a family weighing options, the question becomes whether Brescia's smaller size (43% of students receive Pell grants, suggesting strong financial aid) and 35% admission rate offer advantages that offset this earnings gap.
The practical consideration: at these estimated debt levels, monthly payments would consume a reasonable share of typical take-home pay for Kentucky business grads. But if your student has admission offers from UK, NKU, or similar programs, the higher earnings trajectory at those schools could make debt repayment considerably easier while building a stronger financial foundation.
Where Brescia University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/commerce bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Kentucky
Business/Commerce bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kentucky (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $30,450 | $41,281* | โ | $26,000* | โ | |
| $14,220 | $56,432* | $59,618 | $43,625* | 0.77 | |
| $13,212 | $49,431* | $59,354 | $23,055* | 0.47 | |
| $10,896 | $48,654* | $61,090 | $30,750* | 0.63 | |
| $27,850 | $47,596* | $47,782 | $31,000* | 0.65 | |
| $9,875 | $46,242* | $51,203 | $21,219* | 0.46 | |
| National Median | โ | $47,506* | โ | $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 Brescia University, approximately 43% 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 14 similar programs in KY. Actual outcomes may vary.