Median Earnings (1yr)
$49,772
65th percentile (60th in VA)
Median Debt
$29,166
12% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.59
Manageable
Sample Size
1691
Adequate data

Analysis

Liberty University's Business Administration program delivers solid financial outcomes that outperform both national and Virginia averages. With median first-year earnings of $49,772, graduates earn about $4,000 more than the typical business program graduate nationally and in Virginia. The program ranks in the 65th percentile nationally and 60th percentile within Virginia—respectable performance among the 43 Virginia schools offering this degree.

The debt picture is particularly attractive. At $29,166, student debt is only slightly above state and national medians, but the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59 is excellent—meaning graduates can reasonably expect to manage their debt load. This places Liberty in the 20th percentile for debt nationally, indicating most comparable programs saddle students with significantly more borrowing. The 9% earnings growth from year one to year four suggests steady career progression.

While Liberty's outcomes trail Virginia's elite programs like Washington and Lee ($76,627) or William & Mary ($75,038), it offers strong value for a more accessible education—the 99% admission rate means your child has virtually guaranteed acceptance. For families seeking a business degree with manageable debt and above-average earning potential, Liberty presents a financially sensible choice that positions graduates well without the crushing debt loads common elsewhere.

Where Liberty University Stands

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

Liberty 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 Liberty University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Liberty University graduates earn $50k, placing them in the 65th 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 Virginia

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Virginia (43 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Liberty University$49,772$54,361$29,1660.59
Washington and Lee University$76,627$98,403——
William & Mary$75,038$85,678$19,8120.26
University of Richmond$68,151$79,209$20,5000.30
James Madison University$65,931$68,297$19,7500.30
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University$60,678$60,297$22,5350.37
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Virginia

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Virginia schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Washington and Lee University
Lexington
$64,525$76,627—
William & Mary
Williamsburg
$25,040$75,038$19,812
University of Richmond
University of Richmond
$62,600$68,151$20,500
James Madison University
Harrisonburg
$13,576$65,931$19,750
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Blacksburg
$15,478$60,678$22,535

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 Liberty University, approximately 39% 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 1691 graduates with reported earnings and 1786 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.