Business/Commerce at Kalamazoo College

Kalamazoo College's business program starts below Michigan's typical outcomes but catches up through strong earnings growth. First-year graduates earn $47,481—about $2,500 less than the state median—but by year four, earnings jump to $64,986, a 37% increase that narrows the gap with faster-growing competitors. This trajectory matters because it suggests the program's liberal arts foundation and career development support help graduates accelerate once they establish themselves professionally.

The $26,000 debt load is manageable, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.55 that gives graduates breathing room early in their careers. While Oakland and Walsh College graduates start with higher salaries, Kalamazoo's lower admission rate (76%) compared to regional universities and its liberal arts approach may appeal to students seeking a different educational experience rather than purely vocational training. At 40th percentile within Michigan, this program ranks middle-of-the-pack among state options.

For families weighing a liberal arts business education against more career-focused programs, Kalamazoo offers reasonable debt with solid earnings momentum, though students should understand they'll likely earn less initially than peers at Michigan's top business schools. The four-year earnings growth suggests patience pays off, but families prioritizing immediate post-graduation income might find better value elsewhere in the state.