Analysis
John Brown University's business program demonstrates strong results that justify its slightly higher debt load. With first-year earnings of $54,982, graduates earn 41% more than the typical Arkansas business graduate and outperform 82% of similar programs nationally. The $27,000 median debt sits just above state and national medians, but with a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49, most graduates can manage repayment within their first year's salary.
The program's trajectory looks solid, with earnings climbing to $64,771 by year four—a healthy 18% increase that suggests graduates are landing roles with advancement potential. Among Arkansas business programs, only the University of Arkansas system schools show comparable outcomes, and JBU's results actually exceed the state's flagship university in this field.
For families weighing this investment, the math works: graduates enter the workforce earning substantially above both state and national benchmarks while carrying manageable debt. The 68% admission rate indicates selectivity without exclusivity, and the program consistently delivers outcomes that place it in the top tier of Arkansas business schools and the top fifth nationally.
Where John Brown University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How John Brown 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Brown University | $54,982 | $64,771 | +18% |
| University of Arkansas | $56,456 | $69,084 | +22% |
| Harding University | $40,081 | $59,470 | +48% |
| University of Arkansas Grantham | $59,009 | $58,286 | -1% |
| University of Arkansas at Little Rock | $39,022 | $51,636 | +32% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Arkansas
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Arkansas (21 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 John Brown UniversitySiloam Springs | $30,832 | $54,982 | $64,771 | $27,000 | 0.49 |
 University of Arkansas GranthamLIttle Rock | $8,280 | $59,009 | $58,286 | $39,269 | 0.67 |
 University of ArkansasFayetteville | $9,748 | $56,456 | $69,084 | $21,500 | 0.38 |
 Harding UniversitySearcy | $24,888 | $40,081 | $59,470 | $27,750 | 0.69 |
 Arkansas Tech UniversityRussellville | $8,508 | $39,866 | $41,009 | $21,780 | 0.55 |
 University of Arkansas-Fort SmithFort Smith | $6,906 | $39,057 | $42,588 | $19,148 | 0.49 |
| 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 John Brown University, approximately 21% 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 36 graduates with reported earnings and 40 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.