Analysis
Husson's business program lands squarely in the middle of the pack, with graduates earning less than the state median and trailing most Maine competitors. At $44,825 in the first year, earnings come in below both the national and state averages, ranking in just the 40th percentile among Maine's 13 business programs. While debt loads are relatively modest at $27,000—producing a manageable 0.60 debt-to-earnings ratio—the income trajectory shows steady growth to $54,116 by year four, a 21% increase that helps close the gap.
The real challenge here is comparative value within Maine. Students at University of Southern Maine earn $3,600 more right out of the gate, while those at Saint Joseph's College pull in nearly $9,000 more. Maine Maritime Academy's business graduates earn more than double Husson's figures, though that's a specialized institution. For families paying in-state tuition, these alternatives deserve serious consideration, especially given Husson's 86% admission rate suggests similar accessibility.
The positive spin? Husson won't bury students in debt, and earnings growth suggests the degree provides a foundation for career advancement. But for parents comparing Maine options, this program doesn't offer a compelling financial advantage over readily available state alternatives. If Husson is the destination of choice for other reasons—location, fit, specific programs—the business degree won't derail finances, but it's unlikely to accelerate them either.
Where Husson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Husson University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Husson University | $44,825 | $54,116 | +21% |
| Thomas College | $42,478 | $58,478 | +38% |
| University of Maine | $45,950 | $53,668 | +17% |
| University of Southern Maine | $48,421 | $53,243 | +10% |
| Saint Joseph's College of Maine | $53,238 | $48,012 | -10% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Maine
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maine (13 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $22,194 | $44,825 | $54,116 | $27,000 | 0.60 | |
| $14,746 | $98,743 | — | $27,000 | 0.27 | |
| $42,550 | $55,830 | — | $26,920 | 0.48 | |
| $42,834 | $53,238 | $48,012 | $27,000 | 0.51 | |
| $10,920 | $48,421 | $53,243 | $25,042 | 0.52 | |
| $12,606 | $45,950 | $53,668 | $27,000 | 0.59 | |
| 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 Husson University, approximately 35% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 75 graduates with reported earnings and 84 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.