Analysis
A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.45—meaning roughly five and a half months of first-year income to cover total borrowing—represents a manageable starting point for business economics graduates, though these figures come from comparable programs nationally rather than Goldey-Beacom's specific outcomes. The estimated $53,219 first-year salary aligns exactly with the national median for this degree, suggesting neither premium nor penalty in the market. With estimated debt of $24,000, slightly above the national median of $22,250, the math works but leaves little room for surprises.
What's harder to assess is trajectory. Business economics can lead to roles in corporate strategy, financial analysis, or management—positions where earnings typically grow substantially after the first few years. The question is whether Goldey-Beacom's relatively open admission (77% acceptance rate) and smaller alumni network provide the same launch velocity as larger institutions. For 39% of students receiving Pell grants, that debt load matters even more, particularly if job placement takes longer than expected or starting salaries come in below these estimates.
The practical reality: these estimates suggest reasonable economics if your child lands a job quickly in their field and sees normal salary progression. But without school-specific outcomes data, you're betting on Goldey-Beacom delivering results consistent with the national pool. Before committing, verify the school's actual placement rates and starting salary ranges for recent graduates—information any legitimate program should readily provide.
Where Goldey-Beacom College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/managerial economics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Business/Managerial Economics bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $13,440 | $53,219* | — | $24,000* | — | |
| $62,982 | $106,701* | — | —* | — | |
| $13,747 | $83,604* | $92,873 | $17,332* | 0.21 | |
| $64,701 | $82,212* | $122,309 | $27,000* | 0.33 | |
| $62,180 | $81,796* | $101,741 | $23,240* | 0.28 | |
| $6,496 | $75,227* | $97,349 | —* | — | |
| National Median | — | $53,219* | — | $22,250* | 0.42 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/managerial economics graduates
Economists
Environmental Economists
Financial Risk Specialists
Management Analysts
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Survey Researchers
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 Goldey-Beacom College, approximately 39% 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 national median of 81 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.