Business Administration, Management and Operations at Great Northern University

A business bachelor's from Great Northern shows estimated first-year earnings of $49,004—right at Washington's median for these programs but not approaching the higher-performing options in the state. While peer programs in Washington suggest this program hits the state average, it trails significantly behind City University of Seattle's $79,592 or even Western Washington's $53,402, indicating considerable range in business program outcomes across the state.

The estimated $25,000 in debt produces a manageable 0.51 debt-to-earnings ratio, which is actually favorable compared to the national median debt of $26,000 for business bachelor's programs. With nearly half the student body receiving Pell grants and open admission, Great Northern serves students who may have limited college options. Based on comparable Washington programs, graduates appear positioned slightly above the national median earnings of $45,703, though they're unlikely to match the state's top performers.

For families considering this investment, the key question is opportunity cost: similar programs at other Washington schools produce a wide range of outcomes, and the difference between a $49,000 starting salary and a $79,000 one compounds significantly over a career. These estimates suggest a middle-of-the-road value proposition—not alarming, but parents should understand their student would be starting with typical rather than competitive earnings for a Washington business graduate.