Business Administration, Management and Operations at Limestone University

Limestone University's business program produces graduates who earn above both the state median ($42K) and national median ($46K), placing them in the 60th percentile among South Carolina business programs—a solid middle-tier position. However, the earnings trajectory raises questions: graduates see their pay slip slightly from $47,562 to $46,670 between year one and year four, suggesting limited advancement opportunities or that many land in roles with minimal wage growth.

The debt picture is notably favorable. At $34,437, students borrow significantly more than the national median of $26K, but the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.72 means this is still manageable—graduates can expect to earn more than their total debt in their first year of work. For context, this debt level ranks in the just 8th percentile nationally, meaning 92% of similar programs saddle students with more borrowing. Given that 43% of students receive Pell grants, the university appears to serve a population that often needs to borrow, yet the financial outcome remains workable.

For families considering Limestone's business program, the math works: graduates start earning immediately at competitive wages with debt they can realistically pay down. The lack of earnings growth over time is the main concern—this isn't a launching pad to higher-level management roles. It's a practical choice for students who need an accessible degree that leads to stable employment, just not one that typically opens doors to rapidly advancing careers.