Business Administration, Management and Operations at Brigham Young University-Idaho

BYU-Idaho's business program delivers exceptional value through an unbeatable combination of strong earnings and remarkably low debt. With graduates earning $53,635 in their first year—landing in the 78th percentile nationally—this program significantly outperforms both the national median ($45,703) and Idaho median ($46,499) for business degrees. More impressively, the median debt of just $12,749 ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for low debt, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.24 that's among the best you'll find anywhere.

Within Idaho, this program holds its own against more prestigious competitors, ranking third behind only University of Idaho and Boise State while carrying substantially less debt burden. The 19% earnings growth from year one to year four demonstrates solid career trajectory, with graduates reaching $63,813 by their fourth year out. The robust sample size of 100+ graduates makes these numbers reliable, not statistical noise.

For an anxious parent, this represents a rare find: a business program that provides above-average earning potential without the crushing debt that typically accompanies college degrees. The 97% admission rate means accessibility, while the strong outcomes suggest this is a legitimate pathway to financial stability rather than an expensive gamble.