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
Earnings Distribution
How Emmanuel University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emmanuel University | $30,093 | $47,391 | +57% |
| Emory University | $85,682 | $107,945 | +26% |
| Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus | $73,557 | $78,313 | +6% |
| University of Georgia | $56,630 | $63,445 | +12% |
| Morehouse College | $55,567 | $62,476 | +12% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (54 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $23,664 | $30,093 | $47,391 | $26,000 | 0.86 | |
| $60,774 | $85,682 | $107,945 | $19,500 | 0.23 | |
| $11,764 | $73,557 | $78,313 | $23,000 | 0.31 | |
| $11,180 | $56,630 | $63,445 | $19,500 | 0.34 | |
| $31,725 | $55,567 | $62,476 | $23,625 | 0.43 | |
| $17,488 | $55,102 | $55,550 | $46,797 | 0.85 | |
| National Median | — | $45,703 | — | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business administration, management and operations graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Sales Managers
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.