Business/Commerce at Grand View University

Grand View's business program delivers exactly what you'd expect from a regional Iowa college—starting salaries just above $51,000 that beat the national median by about $4,000. But here's the concern: while most business grads see meaningful salary growth in their first few years, Grand View alumni are earning virtually the same amount four years out. That flat trajectory is unusual for a business degree and suggests graduates may be landing in roles with limited advancement potential. Within Iowa, this program sits squarely in the middle of the pack (40th percentile), trailing schools like Mount Mercy and Wartburg by $3,000-$6,000.

The $27,000 debt load is manageable at first glance—about half of first-year earnings—and matches both the national and state median. For families looking at Grand View's 98% admission rate and substantial Pell Grant population (38% of students), the program provides accessible entry into business careers. However, that stagnant earnings pattern means the debt burden won't feel lighter over time like it should with a typical business degree.

The bottom line: If your child needs a business degree close to home and Grand View's accessibility matters, this program will get them employed at a decent starting salary. Just know they'll likely need to be proactive about changing employers or roles to see the salary growth that usually comes with business careers, since that progression doesn't appear to happen automatically for Grand View grads.