Business Administration, Management and Operations at Johnson C Smith University

The $37,906 starting salary from Johnson C Smith's business program falls roughly $5,500 below North Carolina's median for the field—middle-of-the-pack performance within the state, but a significant gap when compared nationally (17th percentile). More troubling is what happens next: earnings essentially flatline over the following three years, suggesting graduates may struggle to advance beyond entry-level positions. With debt matching that first-year salary almost dollar-for-dollar, students are looking at a challenging financial start, though it's worth noting the debt burden is actually lower than the state median.

The institution serves a predominantly Pell-eligible student population (68%), and the program does provide access to business careers at a manageable debt level. However, parents should be aware their children will likely earn $10,000-15,000 less annually than peers from NC State or UNC-Chapel Hill in similar roles. For families where college proximity or institutional culture are deciding factors, this represents a significant financial tradeoff—one that will matter most if your child plans to remain in North Carolina's competitive job market.

If your family is weighing this program, the key question is whether the specific value Johnson C Smith provides—be it location, community, or fit—justifies starting a business career at a 15-20% earnings discount compared to state alternatives. The debt is reasonable, but the earnings ceiling appears lower than you'd hope.