Analysis
Finance graduates from John Brown University face an estimated $25,812 in debt—about 20% above the Arkansas median for this field—while similar programs in the state suggest first-year earnings around $53,500. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.48 means students would owe roughly half their first year's salary, which falls into manageable territory but leaves less cushion than programs carrying the state's typical $21,000 debt load.
The estimated earnings figure aligns almost exactly with both state and national medians for finance bachelor's programs, suggesting graduates should compete adequately for entry-level positions. However, peer programs in Arkansas show significant variation—from $44,000 at University of Central Arkansas to over $60,000 at UA Little Rock—highlighting how much location, campus recruiting relationships, and career services can influence outcomes. At a smaller Christian university, John Brown may offer strong faculty relationships but potentially fewer corporate recruiting pipelines than larger state schools.
For families concerned about value, the key question is whether John Brown's distinctive campus environment justifies carrying $5,000 more debt than comparable Arkansas programs typically require. The estimated figures suggest this program won't be a financial disaster, but given the suppressed actual data, families should directly ask the school about recent graduate outcomes, employer partnerships, and whether alumni consistently land the banking and corporate finance roles that drive higher salaries in this field.
Where John Brown University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Arkansas
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Arkansas (11 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $30,832 | $53,536* | — | $25,812* | — | |
| $8,455 | $60,521* | $49,203 | $20,152* | 0.33 | |
| $9,748 | $56,387* | $69,566 | $22,924* | 0.41 | |
| $24,888 | $53,876* | $75,356 | $27,250* | 0.51 | |
| $32,480 | $53,195* | $59,472 | $21,320* | 0.40 | |
| $10,118 | $44,343* | $58,261 | $20,000* | 0.45 | |
| National Median | — | $53,590* | — | $23,332* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with finance and financial management services graduates
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Personal Financial Advisors
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial Risk Specialists
Budget Analysts
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Insurance Underwriters
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.
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 6 similar programs in AR. Actual outcomes may vary.