Median Earnings (1yr)
$53,754
78th percentile (60th in MA)
Median Debt
$31,375
21% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.58
Manageable
Sample Size
35
Adequate data

Analysis

Fisher College's business program produces earnings that outpace national averages but trail Boston's elite business schools—though the debt burden tells a more favorable story. At $53,754 in first-year earnings, graduates rank in the 78th percentile nationally but the 60th percentile among Massachusetts programs. While they're earning less than Boston University or Bentley grads initially, the 21% earnings growth to $64,866 by year four shows solid trajectory, and the debt picture is notably better than most competitors.

The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.58 is compelling: graduates owe $31,375, just slightly above state and national medians, yet earn considerably more than typical business grads. This puts Fisher in an interesting middle ground—not quite reaching the earning power of Boston's top-tier programs, but achieving strong outcomes without the debt load that often accompanies elite institutions. For a school serving 42% Pell-eligible students, these numbers suggest effective preparation for the job market.

The tradeoff here is straightforward: families choosing Fisher over more selective Boston schools sacrifice some earning potential (roughly $7,000-18,000 initially compared to the top five) but maintain manageable debt levels. Given the 71% admission rate and strong placement relative to national standards, this program offers a practical path into Boston's business landscape for students who may not have access to more competitive options.

Where Fisher College Stands

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

Fisher CollegeOther 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 Fisher College graduates compare to all programs nationally

Fisher College graduates earn $54k, placing them in the 78th 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 Massachusetts

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (44 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Fisher College$53,754$64,866$31,3750.58
Boston College$71,675$86,804$17,8730.25
Boston University$71,545$86,755$25,0000.35
Babson College$69,970$89,884$23,0000.33
Bentley University$67,903$86,432$25,0000.37
Wentworth Institute of Technology$64,591$88,200——
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Massachusetts

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Massachusetts schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Boston College
Chestnut Hill
$67,680$71,675$17,873
Boston University
Boston
$65,168$71,545$25,000
Babson College
Wellesley
$56,032$69,970$23,000
Bentley University
Waltham
$58,150$67,903$25,000
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Boston
$41,010$64,591—

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 Fisher College, approximately 42% 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 35 graduates with reported earnings and 44 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.