Business Administration, Management and Operations at Los Angeles Pacific University

Los Angeles Pacific University's business program punches significantly above its weight, placing graduates in the 95th percentile nationally and 80th percentile among California programs—remarkable positioning for a small private university. That $64,398 first-year salary substantially outpaces both the national median ($45,703) and California median ($49,543), putting graduates within striking distance of outcomes from USC and Pepperdine without the prestige premium.

The debt picture strengthens the case considerably. At $33,052, borrowing sits well above the national median but below California's typical levels, yielding a manageable 0.51 debt-to-earnings ratio. For a private institution serving a nearly 50% Pell-eligible population, these outcomes suggest strong career placement services or employer connections that translate credentials into actual job opportunities. Students are borrowing more than they would at a CSU, but the earnings premium appears to justify the difference.

The real question for parents is whether this outcome justifies private school tuition over a state alternative. Given that Cal Poly SLO—one of California's most competitive business programs—produces only marginally higher earnings at $71,876, LA Pacific's results suggest the school has carved out genuine value in the market. This isn't just marketing; graduates are earning top-quintile salaries with debt levels they can reasonably manage. For families comfortable with moderate borrowing, this program delivers measurable returns.