Business Administration, Management and Operations at California State University-Long Beach

Cal State Long Beach's business program stands out for one compelling reason: exceptionally low debt. At just $15,000 in median student loans, graduates owe significantly less than the national average of $26,000 and even beat California's median of $21,000. This puts the program in the 95th percentile nationally for low debt—meaning only 5% of business programs nationwide leave students with less debt.

The earnings picture is more modest but still respectable. Starting salaries of $45,751 match the national median exactly, though they fall below California's higher median of $49,543, ranking in the 40th percentile statewide. However, graduates see solid 27% earnings growth over four years, reaching $58,055—a trajectory that helps narrow the gap with higher-earning programs over time.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.33 is excellent, meaning graduates' first-year debt represents just one-third of their starting salary. This creates financial breathing room that many business graduates elsewhere don't enjoy. While this program won't deliver the elite starting salaries of UC Berkeley ($90,008) or USC ($71,668), it offers something valuable: a business degree with minimal financial burden and steady earning potential. For families prioritizing affordability without sacrificing career prospects, this represents solid value.