Analysis
Pennsylvania's finance programs create stark tiers, and Lebanon Valley sits squarely in the middle. With estimated earnings around $58,000—based on the median for 23 Pennsylvania finance programs—this lands above the national figure but well behind the state's powerhouses. Penn's graduates command six-figure salaries, Villanova's break $82,000, and even regional competitors like Widener edge ahead at $63,000.
The estimated $27,000 debt load tracks close to both state and national medians for finance degrees, producing a manageable 0.47 debt-to-earnings ratio. Comparable programs suggest graduates can pay this down within a few years if they stay focused. What's less certain is whether Lebanon Valley delivers the recruiting pipeline and alumni networks that distinguish top-tier finance programs from middle-tier ones—factors that typically matter more than curriculum in this field.
For families considering this investment, the key question isn't the debt burden—it's competitive positioning. These estimates suggest a respectable but unremarkable outcome relative to other Pennsylvania finance programs. If your child has the credentials for Villanova or Lehigh (the admission rate here is 75%, compared to 23% at Villanova), those programs demonstrate substantially higher earnings potential. If Lebanon Valley is the realistic choice, understand that breaking into competitive finance roles may require more hustle than the degree alone provides.
Where Lebanon Valley College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Pennsylvania
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (49 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $50,320 | $57,855* | — | $26,980* | — | |
| $66,104 | $122,698* | $206,646 | $12,865* | 0.10 | |
| $64,701 | $82,008* | $110,166 | $26,197* | 0.32 | |
| $62,180 | $76,720* | $107,260 | $23,250* | 0.30 | |
| $51,340 | $66,072* | $85,648 | $25,000* | 0.38 | |
| $53,638 | $62,672* | — | $26,980* | 0.43 | |
| 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 Lebanon Valley College, approximately 22% 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 23 similar programs in PA. Actual outcomes may vary.