Business Administration, Management and Operations at Mississippi College

Mississippi College's business program outperforms most in-state options while keeping debt manageable. Starting earnings of $43,299 place graduates above the Mississippi median of $39,765—ranking in the 60th percentile statewide—though they trail the national median by about $2,400. More importantly, the program shows strong momentum: earnings jump 22% to $52,744 by year four, surpassing the national 75th percentile mark.

The debt picture makes this program particularly viable for Mississippi families. At $27,000, graduates borrow only slightly more than the state median while achieving better outcomes than 60% of in-state competitors. The 0.62 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly seven months of their starting salary—a reasonable burden for a business degree. Only Belhaven and Ole Miss produce higher earners among Mississippi business programs, but both likely come with their own cost considerations.

For families weighing in-state options, Mississippi College represents a sensible middle ground: above-average local outcomes without excessive debt. The earnings trajectory suggests graduates gain marketable skills that increase in value as they progress in their careers, which matters more than the modest starting salary gap with national peers.