Business Administration, Management and Operations at Carroll College

Carroll College's business program stands out in Montana, outearning the state median by over $10,000 and ranking as the top business program among the state's eight options. With first-year graduates earning $48,337, it beats even Rocky Mountain College while carrying notably lower debt at $19,500—about $4,000 less than Montana's typical business graduate. That 0.40 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than five months of salary, a manageable burden that compares favorably to the national median of $26,000 in debt.

The program performs solidly on a national scale too, landing in the 59th percentile for earnings among 1,600+ business programs nationwide. Graduates see steady income growth to nearly $52,000 by year four, suggesting the degree opens doors to career progression rather than dead-end entry-level positions. The college's relatively high admission standards (1170 SAT average) and low Pell Grant population (18%) point to an advantaged student body, which may contribute to these outcomes.

The significant caveat: this data represents fewer than 30 graduates, so a few high or low earners can skew the picture considerably. Still, for Montana families weighing in-state business programs, Carroll delivers the strongest combination of post-graduation earnings and manageable debt. You're paying somewhat less to graduate and earning notably more than most alternatives.