Analysis
California Baptist University's business program produces graduates who earn solidly above state and national medians, though at debt levels that match the California average. First-year earnings of $51,146 outpace the national median by nearly $3,700 and exceed the California median by about $4,200. Among California business programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile—putting it ahead of schools like Biola and the CSU campuses, though well below top performers like Redlands. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.56 means graduates typically carry about seven months of their first-year salary in loans, which is manageable for a business degree.
The 24% earnings growth to $63,415 by year four shows healthy career progression, suggesting the degree opens doors beyond entry-level positions. With 41% of students on Pell grants, the university serves a substantial population of first-generation and lower-income students who see meaningful returns. The sample size here is robust, so these numbers represent a reliable picture of outcomes.
For families weighing options, this program delivers above-average results without excessive debt. It won't match the elite private schools, but it consistently produces graduates who out-earn the typical California business major while taking on debt that's entirely typical for the state. That's a straightforward value proposition for a business degree.
Where California Baptist University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/commerce bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How California Baptist 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| California Baptist University | $51,146 | $63,415 | +24% |
| Saint Mary's College of California | $46,958 | $84,175 | +79% |
| University of Redlands | $72,664 | $69,853 | -4% |
| California State University-San Marcos | $46,958 | $62,177 | +32% |
| Biola University | $46,300 | $59,432 | +28% |
Compare to Similar Programs in California
Business/Commerce bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (15 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $39,720 | $51,146 | $63,415 | $28,619 | 0.56 | |
| $57,614 | $72,664 | $69,853 | $37,500 | 0.52 | |
| $17,488 | $57,020 | $56,664 | $47,236 | 0.83 | |
| $56,134 | $46,958 | $84,175 | $24,000 | 0.51 | |
| $7,739 | $46,958 | $62,177 | $22,875 | 0.49 | |
| $46,704 | $46,300 | $59,432 | $23,875 | 0.52 | |
| National Median | — | $47,506 | — | $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 California Baptist University, approximately 41% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 157 graduates with reported earnings and 204 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.