Analysis
A $27,000 debt load matched against first-year earnings around $49,000 creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.55—comfortably below the concerning 1.0 threshold where loan payments become burdensome. Based on Indiana's business programs, these numbers suggest a manageable financial outcome, though it's worth noting that several comparable schools in the state report significantly higher earnings, with top performers seeing graduates earn $60,000 or more right out of the gate.
The estimated figures here align almost exactly with state medians, which places this program squarely in the middle of Indiana's business education landscape. What's less clear is whether Goshen's particular approach—serving a student body where 37% receive Pell grants—delivers the same outcomes as these state-wide averages would suggest, or whether actual results might differ. Similar programs across Indiana show considerable variation, from the state median up to the $62,000 range at Grace College.
The practical takeaway: if your student is choosing Goshen for fit reasons—size, mission, location—the estimated financial picture doesn't raise red flags. The debt appears reasonable relative to likely earnings. However, given that these are projections from peer programs rather than tracked outcomes from Goshen graduates specifically, you'll want to ask the school directly about job placement rates and where their business alumni actually land their first jobs.
Where Goshen College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Indiana
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Indiana (41 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $37,760 | $49,245* | — | $27,000* | — | |
| $30,034 | $62,251* | $49,304 | $20,104* | 0.32 | |
| $10,758 | $60,526* | $59,631 | $20,500* | 0.34 | |
| $31,168 | $58,880* | $62,714 | $42,138* | 0.72 | |
| $8,216 | $58,880* | $62,714 | $42,138* | 0.72 | |
| $10,110 | $57,308* | $52,586 | $45,176* | 0.79 | |
| National Median | — | $45,703* | — | $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 Goshen College, approximately 37% 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 31 similar programs in IN. Actual outcomes may vary.