Analysis
Bryan University's business associate's degree leaves graduates earning about $28,000—roughly $6,000 below the Missouri median and $8,500 below the national average for this credential. While the debt load of $23,449 isn't extreme by national standards, it creates a challenging repayment scenario when paired with earnings that actually decline slightly by year four. That 25th percentile ranking among Missouri programs tells you this is one of the weaker-performing business options in a state where community colleges like Saint Louis deliver significantly better outcomes.
The small sample size here is important context—we're looking at fewer than 30 graduates, so individual circumstances can skew the numbers. However, the pattern is concerning enough to warrant serious consideration of alternatives, especially since 77% of students here receive Pell grants, suggesting many families are stretching financially to afford this program.
For a business associate's degree in Missouri, you're likely better served exploring community college options that cost less and produce higher earnings. At minimum, request detailed placement data from Bryan University and understand exactly what career support comes with that $23,000 investment. The combination of below-average earnings and stagnant income growth suggests this program may not be positioning graduates for the entry-level business roles that typically justify even modest student debt.
Where Bryan University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/commerce associates's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Bryan University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bryan University | $28,014 | $27,140 | -3% |
| Thomas More University | $83,571 | $68,202 | -18% |
| Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion | $49,463 | $54,966 | +11% |
| Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global | $49,463 | $54,966 | +11% |
| Columbia College | $41,791 | $45,164 | +8% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri
Business/Commerce associates's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (13 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $15,868 | $28,014 | $27,140 | $23,449 | 0.84 | |
| $24,326 | $41,791 | $45,164 | $27,897 | 0.67 | |
| $3,660 | $34,419 | — | $11,000 | 0.32 | |
| National Median | — | $36,591 | — | $13,437 | 0.37 |
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 Bryan University, approximately 77% 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.