Business Administration, Management and Operations at Manhattan University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Manhattan University's business program reports first-year earnings of $113,777—more than double the New York state median and far exceeding even elite programs like Fordham and Syracuse. This places graduates in the 95th percentile both nationally and statewide. The debt load of $25,328 seems manageable against these numbers, with a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.22.
Before celebrating, parents need to understand the asterisk: this data comes from fewer than 30 graduates, making it statistically unreliable. The 8% earnings decline between years one and four—dropping to $104,296—hints that initial placements may not be typical or sustainable. For context, most business programs show earnings growth over this period, not contraction.
The sample size issue is crucial here. With Manhattan's 78% admission rate and modest 31% Pell grant population, it's unlikely the program systematically produces outcomes this exceptional. More probably, a few graduates landed unusually high-paying positions that skewed the average upward. If your child attends, realistic expectations should align closer to the $42,000-$60,000 range typical for New York business programs—solid outcomes, but not the six-figure launch suggested by this limited dataset. The debt level is reasonable regardless, but don't bank on the outsized earnings.
Where Manhattan University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
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 Manhattan University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Manhattan University graduates earn $114k, placing them in the 95th 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 New York
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (94 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manhattan University | $113,777 | $104,296 | $25,328 | 0.22 |
| Excelsior University | $70,191 | — | $14,737 | 0.21 |
| Clarkson University | $65,887 | $76,141 | $24,757 | 0.38 |
| Syracuse University | $65,009 | $71,365 | $27,000 | 0.42 |
| Yeshiva University | $61,312 | $65,800 | $22,000 | 0.36 |
| Fordham University | $58,341 | $78,039 | $26,915 | 0.46 |
| National Median | $45,703 | — | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in New York
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New York schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Excelsior University Albany | — | $70,191 | $14,737 |
| Clarkson University Potsdam | $57,950 | $65,887 | $24,757 |
| Syracuse University Syracuse | $63,061 | $65,009 | $27,000 |
| Yeshiva University New York | $49,900 | $61,312 | $22,000 |
| Fordham University Bronx | $61,992 | $58,341 | $26,915 |
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 Manhattan University, approximately 31% 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.