Median Earnings (1yr)
$37,382
16th percentile (25th in PA)
Median Debt
$23,562
9% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.63
Manageable
Sample Size
26
Limited data

Analysis

La Salle's business management program starts graduates at $37,382—significantly below both Pennsylvania's median ($47,040) and the national benchmark ($45,703). Among Pennsylvania's 82 business programs, this ranks in just the 25th percentile, meaning three-quarters of comparable state programs deliver better initial earnings. The modest debt load of $23,562 provides some cushion, but that first-year salary creates a tight financial picture for new graduates trying to establish themselves in an expensive metro area like Philadelphia.

The program does show substantial earnings growth, with graduates reaching $57,941 by year four—a 55% increase that narrows the gap with peers. However, even this later salary lags behind what many Pennsylvania business programs deliver right out of the gate. For context, grads from Pitt's business program start at $62,675, while Carnegie Mellon and Penn graduates earn nearly double La Salle's four-year mark immediately upon graduation.

The critical caveat: this data reflects fewer than 30 graduates, so individual outcomes could vary considerably. Still, for families weighing options, the pattern is clear—this program underperforms relative to other Pennsylvania business schools at a similar price point. If La Salle is the only viable option due to location or finances, the manageable debt softens the risk. But students with geographic flexibility should compare offers carefully, as Pennsylvania offers numerous business programs with stronger employment outcomes.

Where La Salle University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally

La Salle UniversityOther business administration, management and operations programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How La Salle University graduates compare to all programs nationally

La Salle University graduates earn $37k, placing them in the 16th percentile of all business administration, management and operations bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (82 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
La Salle University$37,382$57,941$23,5620.63
Carnegie Mellon University$95,891$123,200$23,2500.24
University of Pennsylvania$91,443$90,686$20,3480.22
Lehigh University$69,289$86,039$20,5000.30
Franklin and Marshall College$64,664$77,821$19,5000.30
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus$62,675$74,000$21,0000.34
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Pennsylvania

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh
$63,829$95,891$23,250
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia
$66,104$91,443$20,348
Lehigh University
Bethlehem
$62,180$69,289$20,500
Franklin and Marshall College
Lancaster
$68,380$64,664$19,500
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
Pittsburgh
$21,524$62,675$21,000

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 La Salle University, approximately 33% 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 26 graduates with reported earnings and 30 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.