Business Administration, Management and Operations at Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs

Colorado Technical University's business program delivers solid earnings outcomes but comes with a significant debt burden that demands careful consideration. Graduates earn $53,147 in their first year, placing them in the 77th percentile nationally—well above the national median of $45,703. However, among Colorado programs, this ranks in the 60th percentile, meaning it's middle-of-the-pack within the state despite strong national performance.

The concerning factor is debt: at $41,758, students graduate owing nearly double the national average ($26,000) and 80% more than the typical Colorado business graduate ($23,000). This puts CTU in the 5th percentile nationally for debt levels—meaning 95% of similar programs nationwide burden students with less debt. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.79 is manageable but not ideal, and virtually flat earnings growth over four years suggests limited advancement potential early in graduates' careers.

For perspective, several Colorado schools deliver comparable or better earnings with significantly lower debt burdens. With 68% of students receiving Pell grants, CTU serves many students who may have limited alternatives, but families should seriously weigh whether the premium price—nearly $19,000 more debt than the state average—justifies the modest earnings advantage over more affordable in-state options.