Business Administration, Management and Operations at Doane University

Doane's Business Administration graduates earn above both national and state medians while carrying manageable debt—but earnings flatline completely after graduation. That $51,000 starting salary stays essentially frozen at $51,000 four years later, a pattern that raises questions about career trajectory and advancement opportunities for alumni.

The fundamentals look solid: graduates rank in the 69th percentile nationally and 60th percentile among Nebraska business programs, while debt sits well below average at $27,000. That 0.53 debt-to-earnings ratio means students can handle their loans on a business graduate's salary. The university's 90% admission rate suggests accessibility, though the low 28% Pell enrollment indicates it may not serve many lower-income students. For context, nearby Bellevue University and UNO both produce stronger earning outcomes, with Bellevue graduates averaging $61,000.

The stagnant earnings deserve serious consideration. Most business careers show meaningful salary growth as graduates gain experience and move into management roles. The complete absence of growth here—even accounting for inflation—suggests graduates may be stuck in entry-level positions or industries with limited upward mobility. If your child attends Doane, encourage them to be strategic about internships and first-job selection, as that initial placement may define their earning potential for years.