Analysis
Clark University's business program produces first-year earnings of $43,449—roughly $5,000 below the Massachusetts median and $2,300 below the national average. With a small sample size, these numbers deserve scrutiny, but the 40th percentile ranking among Bay State business programs suggests this isn't an outlier result. The debt load of $26,000 sits right at national and state medians, yielding a manageable 0.60 debt-to-earnings ratio, but the real question is whether attending a selective liberal arts college (42% admission rate, 1339 SAT) delivers a competitive return compared to more business-focused Massachusetts schools.
The gap between Clark and the state's top business programs is substantial—Boston College and BU graduates earn nearly $30,000 more in year one. Even accounting for Clark's broader liberal arts mission, falling below the state median raises concerns about whether this program positions graduates for strong business career launches. The modest debt helps, but parents should understand they're likely paying a premium for Clark's brand while getting below-average Massachusetts business outcomes.
Given the small sample size, talk directly with career services about actual placement results and whether recent changes to the program might shift these numbers. If you're paying out-of-state tuition or significant net costs, the value proposition weakens considerably—Massachusetts offers stronger business programs at similar or lower debt levels.
Where Clark University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Clark University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (44 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $55,160 | $43,449 | — | $26,000 | 0.60 | |
| $67,680 | $71,675 | $86,804 | $17,873 | 0.25 | |
| $65,168 | $71,545 | $86,755 | $25,000 | 0.35 | |
| $56,032 | $69,970 | $89,884 | $23,000 | 0.33 | |
| $58,150 | $67,903 | $86,432 | $25,000 | 0.37 | |
| $41,010 | $64,591 | $88,200 | — | — | |
| National Median | — | $45,703 | — | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business administration, management and operations graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Sales Managers
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 Clark University, approximately 21% 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 19 graduates with reported earnings and 47 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.