Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods at Drexel University

Drexel's Management Sciences program commands a premium price through its debt load, yet the return justifies the investment. Graduates start at $74,357—beating the national median by $12,000—and reach $86,702 by year four. That 17% earnings trajectory shows graduates gaining value in the marketplace rather than plateauing early. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 means graduates owe roughly five months of their first-year salary, a manageable figure that most can pay down within a few years.

The state picture reveals an interesting dynamic: while this program ranks at the 60th percentile among Pennsylvania schools, it's essentially matching the state median of $73,497. The gap to Penn's $104,502 is substantial, but Drexel outperforms more accessible options like Saint Joseph's by nearly $9,000. Meanwhile, it ranks in the 82nd percentile nationally, suggesting Pennsylvania simply offers stronger programs in this field than most states.

For families weighing the $28,750 debt against outcomes, the math works. This isn't the cheapest path into quantitative management, but the combination of strong starting salaries, steady growth, and debt that's roughly $5,500 above the state median creates a workable equation. If your child can handle the rigor and wants solid earning power without reaching for ultra-selective admissions, this program delivers tangible returns.