Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations at Brigham Young University

BYU's entrepreneurial program launches graduates at $64,061—substantially above the national median of $45,265 for this major, though debt figures here are estimates derived from similar programs at peer institutions. That first-year salary puts BYU near the top nationally, suggesting strong network effects and perhaps a culture that favors business ownership early in careers.

The puzzling part is the earnings decline to $58,082 by year four. This 9% drop likely reflects the entrepreneurial nature of the degree itself: many graduates may be building their own ventures during those early years, accepting lower immediate income for potential long-term payoff. Alternatively, some may shift into different roles as their career paths crystallize. The estimated $25,396 debt load—if accurate—creates a manageable 0.40 ratio to first-year earnings, well within conventional affordability standards.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether your student genuinely plans to start a business or needs the entrepreneurial toolkit for another purpose. The strong initial placement suggests BYU's program opens doors, but the earnings trajectory hints at a non-traditional path. If your child is serious about ownership and comfortable with income uncertainty during startup years, this could work. If they're seeking stable corporate employment, other business concentrations might offer clearer returns.