Analysis
Fisher College's business program produces earnings that outpace national averages but trail Boston's elite business schoolsβthough 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 groundβnot 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
Earnings Distribution
How Fisher College 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fisher College | $53,754 | $64,866 | +21% |
| Babson College | $69,970 | $89,884 | +28% |
| Wentworth Institute of Technology | $64,591 | $88,200 | +37% |
| Boston College | $71,675 | $86,804 | +21% |
| Boston University | $71,545 | $86,755 | +21% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (44 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $35,013 | $53,754 | $64,866 | $31,375 | 0.58 | |
| $67,680 | $71,675 | $86,804 | $17,873 | 0.25 | |
| $65,168 | $71,545 | $86,755 | $25,000 | 0.35 | |
| $56,032 | $69,970 | $89,884 | $23,000 | 0.33 | |
| $58,150 | $67,903 | $86,432 | $25,000 | 0.37 | |
| $41,010 | $64,591 | $88,200 | β | β | |
| National Median | β | $45,703 | β | $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 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.