Business Administration, Management and Operations at George Mason University

George Mason's business program delivers earnings well above the national median—$55,147 versus $45,703—placing graduates in the 83rd percentile nationally. That's solid performance from a university with an 89% acceptance rate. The debt load of $23,471 is actually lighter than both national and state averages, creating a comfortable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.43. Within Virginia, though, the picture becomes more competitive: this program sits at the 60th percentile statewide, trailing stronger performers like JMU and Virginia Tech by about $5,000 to $10,000 in first-year earnings.

The 19% earnings growth over four years shows consistent career progression, with graduates reaching nearly $66,000 by year four. That's comparable to what JMU graduates earn immediately after graduation. For Northern Virginia families where George Mason offers in-state tuition and proximity to the D.C. metro job market, this combination of above-average starting salaries and manageable debt makes practical sense. The robust sample size means these numbers reliably reflect typical outcomes.

This is a fundamentally sound choice for Virginia students, particularly those seeking access to the strong D.C.-area business market without taking on significant debt. You're not getting elite-level outcomes, but you're getting dependable results at a reasonable price point.