Analysis
A Bachelor's in Finance from Flagler College looks like a financially sensible path based on what similar programs in Florida deliver. With estimated debt around $24,000 and first-year earnings near $52,000, the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.47 suggests graduates could reasonably manage repayment while building their careers. This falls close to the national median debt for finance programs ($23,332) while earnings align with typical Florida outcomes for this field.
The challenge is competitive positioning. Florida's top finance programs—University of Florida, University of Miami, and Florida State—report first-year earnings of $56,500 to over $70,000. Flagler's 78% admission rate and smaller size may limit the alumni network and recruiting pipeline that give larger state universities an edge in finance, where connections often matter as much as credentials. That said, peer programs across Florida suggest Flagler graduates should still find entry-level opportunities in banking, corporate finance, or wealth management.
For families prioritizing manageable debt over maximum earning potential, this program makes sense. The estimated $24,000 debt burden won't anchor your child's early career, and Saint Augustine's small business community could provide internship access that larger schools can't. Just recognize that breaking into competitive finance roles in Miami or New York may require extra hustle compared to graduates from flagship programs with established recruiting relationships.
Where Flagler College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (30 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $26,610 | $51,633* | — | $24,028* | — | |
| $6,381 | $70,663* | $83,279 | $17,954* | 0.25 | |
| $59,926 | $70,352* | $89,692 | $14,500* | 0.21 | |
| $5,656 | $56,516* | $75,328 | $18,162* | 0.32 | |
| $6,368 | $56,415* | $66,928 | $18,843* | 0.33 | |
| $6,118 | $55,882* | $70,927 | $21,239* | 0.38 | |
| National Median | — | $53,590* | — | $23,332* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with finance and financial management services graduates
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Personal Financial Advisors
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial Risk Specialists
Budget Analysts
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Insurance Underwriters
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 Flagler College, approximately 28% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 15 similar programs in FL. Actual outcomes may vary.