Business Administration, Management and Operations at Nevada State University

Nevada State University's business program sits in an uncomfortable middle position—earning above the national average but trailing most Nevada competitors. While graduates start at nearly $50,000 and see 13% earnings growth over four years, they're making about $3,000 less than the state median for business programs. More telling: this ranks only in the 40th percentile statewide, meaning six out of ten Nevada business programs deliver better outcomes.

The debt picture offers some relief. At roughly $21,000, it's well below the national average and creates a manageable 0.41 debt-to-earnings ratio—graduates would need less than half their first year's salary to pay off their loans. That's notably better than many competitors charging significantly more. The challenge is that programs like Great Basin College and even University of Nevada-Reno are delivering either much stronger earnings or comparable outcomes at similar debt levels.

For families comparing Nevada options, this program works as a fallback if your student doesn't gain admission to more selective state schools or wants to stay local in Henderson. The combination of relatively low debt and solid earnings growth means it won't burden graduates financially. But if your student can get into UNR or commute to Great Basin, those investments would likely pay better dividends. The 86% admission rate makes this an accessible option—just understand you're paying for convenience and accessibility rather than exceptional earning potential.