Analysis
Loras College's finance program produces graduates who outperform the typical Iowa finance grad by $10,000+ in their first year—placing them ahead of most in-state options except Drake and matching the University of Iowa's outcomes. At $59,434 starting, these graduates earn more than 73% of finance majors nationally while carrying debt slightly below the state median at $24,077.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.41 means graduates can expect to pay off their loans in well under a year of earnings—a favorable position for entering the financial services sector. Earnings grow modestly to $63,016 by year four, suggesting stable career progression rather than explosive growth. The 92% admission rate indicates accessible entry, though the relatively low Pell grant percentage suggests this may not be the most economical option for price-sensitive families.
The critical caveat: this data comes from a very small sample of graduates, so these numbers could shift significantly with future cohorts. Still, the pattern is encouraging—Loras delivers competitive outcomes at a manageable debt level, positioning graduates solidly in Iowa's finance job market. For families considering private colleges in Iowa for finance, this program warrants serious consideration alongside the state's flagship universities.
Where Loras College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Loras College graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loras College | $59,434 | $63,016 | +6% |
| Drake University | $62,049 | $81,311 | +31% |
| University of Iowa | $59,965 | $76,298 | +27% |
| Buena Vista University | $52,226 | $65,642 | +26% |
| Iowa State University | $56,974 | $64,793 | +14% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Iowa
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Iowa (12 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $38,298 | $59,434 | $63,016 | $24,077 | 0.41 | |
| $49,944 | $62,049 | $81,311 | $25,000 | 0.40 | |
| $10,964 | $59,965 | $76,298 | $23,165 | 0.39 | |
| $10,497 | $56,974 | $64,793 | $21,750 | 0.38 | |
| $35,598 | $56,275 | $61,730 | — | — | |
| $9,728 | $52,759 | $62,693 | $20,750 | 0.39 | |
| 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 Loras College, approximately 25% 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 24 graduates with reported earnings and 22 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.