Business Administration, Management and Operations at Concord University

Concord's business program produces graduates earning just $33,348 in their first year—about $9,400 below West Virginia's median for business programs and $12,000 below the national average. While the $18,900 debt burden is lower than typical, that's relative consolation when you're starting at the bottom of the earnings ladder, ranking in just the 5th percentile nationally.

The comparison to other West Virginia schools is particularly striking. University of Charleston business graduates earn nearly double at $63,623, and even WVU's program delivers starting salaries around $49,000. Concord ranks 25th percentile among state business programs—meaning three-quarters of comparable in-state options produce better outcomes. With a 90% admission rate and average SAT of 980, this aligns with an institution where access, not outcomes, is the priority.

The 13% earnings growth to $37,654 by year four is positive but doesn't close the gap. For families considering business degrees in West Virginia, the math here is straightforward: other state schools offer significantly better returns on the same investment of time and tuition. Unless there are compelling personal reasons to attend Concord specifically, your student would likely be better served applying to programs higher up West Virginia's business school rankings.