Business/Commerce at Loras College

A $27,000 debt load for a business degree seems reasonable at first glance—it matches what similar Iowa programs report and sits right at the national median. But here's the complication: both the earnings and debt figures for Loras are estimates based on peer programs across Iowa, not actual outcomes from graduates of this specific program. That matters because Iowa's business programs show significant variation, with top performers like Mount Mercy producing first-year earnings above $57,000 while others lag below $49,000.

The estimated debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52 would be workable if these numbers hold true—roughly half a year's salary in debt is manageable for most graduates. But with Loras's 92% admission rate and modest Pell enrollment, you're looking at a school that may not have the competitive edge or corporate connections that drive the strongest employment outcomes. Similar programs in Iowa suggest earnings around $52,000, which beats the national median by about $4,500, though Iowa's lower cost of living explains some of that advantage.

The fundamental challenge here is making a financial decision without knowing this program's actual track record. If Loras performs like the median Iowa business program, the investment pencils out fine. But if it's closer to the lower-performing programs in the state, you're looking at potentially $50,000+ in total debt (accounting for interest) against starting salaries in the high $40,000s. Request actual placement data and typical starting salaries from the career services office before committing.