Median Earnings (1yr)
$30,093
5th percentile (10th in GA)
Median Debt
$26,000
At national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.86
Manageable
Sample Size
37
Adequate data

Analysis

Emmanuel University's business program starts graduates at just $30,093—below both the Georgia median ($44,392) and national average ($45,703), ranking in the bottom 10th percentile among business programs in the state. While the 58% earnings jump to $47,391 by year four suggests meaningful career progression, that first year leaves graduates earning barely above minimum wage despite carrying $26,000 in debt.

The gap between Emmanuel and other Georgia business programs is stark. Top state schools like UGA ($56,630) and Georgia Tech ($73,557) start graduates at nearly double Emmanuel's initial earnings. Even reaching the four-year mark, Emmanuel graduates still earn less than the typical starting salary at stronger programs. For a middle-tier debt load, the return simply doesn't compete with in-state alternatives that offer substantially better immediate earning potential.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.86 means graduates owe nearly a full year's salary after their first year, creating real financial strain during a period when they're earning well below livable wages. Unless a family has compelling reasons to choose Emmanuel specifically—perhaps religious affiliation or scholarships that dramatically reduce costs—other Georgia business programs offer far better financial outcomes for the same or similar debt burden.

Where Emmanuel University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally

Emmanuel UniversityOther business administration, management and operations programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Emmanuel University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Emmanuel University graduates earn $30k, placing them in the 5th percentile of all business administration, management and operations bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (54 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Emmanuel University$30,093$47,391$26,0000.86
Emory University$85,682$107,945$19,5000.23
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus$73,557$78,313$23,0000.31
University of Georgia$56,630$63,445$19,5000.34
Morehouse College$55,567$62,476$23,6250.43
DeVry University-Georgia$55,102$55,550$46,7970.85
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Georgia

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Georgia schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Emory University
Atlanta
$60,774$85,682$19,500
Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus
Atlanta
$11,764$73,557$23,000
University of Georgia
Athens
$11,180$56,630$19,500
Morehouse College
Atlanta
$31,725$55,567$23,625
DeVry University-Georgia
Decatur
$17,488$55,102$46,797

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 Emmanuel University, approximately 30% 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 37 graduates with reported earnings and 40 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.