Business Administration, Management and Operations at Georgetown University

Georgetown's business program generates first-year earnings of $77,479—70% above the national median and $13,000 more than American University grads earn. While Georgetown ranks 80th percentile in DC (behind Howard's business school), that's largely because DC's tight market for business programs includes only elite competitors. Nationally, this program sits in the 95th percentile, outearning 95% of similar business degrees across the country.

The financial mechanics work exceptionally well here. With just $16,422 in median debt—less than both the state and national medians—students face a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.21. That means graduates could realistically pay off their loans in under three months of gross salary. Earnings also climb steadily to $88,049 by year four, a 14% increase that suggests strong career progression in DC's government, consulting, and financial sectors where Georgetown maintains deep connections.

For a selective school (13% admission rate), this represents genuine value rather than credential inflation. The combination of top-decile national earnings, minimal debt, and strong alumni networks in Washington creates a clear pathway to six-figure salaries within a few years. If your child can gain admission and manage Georgetown's total cost of attendance, the business program delivers exactly what elite parents expect: immediate earning power and long-term career momentum.