Business/Managerial Economics at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University's Business/Managerial Economics graduates start at $47,379—about $6,000 below what University of Arizona produces and roughly $4,400 less than the Arizona median. Within the state's limited landscape (only two schools offer this program), NAU falls in the 40th percentile, meaning it underperforms the typical in-state option. The debt load of $23,021 is standard for the field, resulting in a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49, but that calculation becomes less comforting when the earnings themselves lag behind.

The 15% earnings growth over four years brings graduates to $54,368, which closes some of the gap but still leaves them trailing both state and national benchmarks. Ranking in just the 32nd percentile nationally signals that most comparable programs deliver stronger returns. For Arizona families weighing in-state tuition benefits, this program doesn't maximize that advantage—you're paying Arizona prices but getting below-Arizona results.

The practical reality: graduates can handle their debt payments, but they're starting their careers at a meaningful disadvantage compared to peers from U of A or similar programs elsewhere. If your student is set on business economics and staying in Arizona, this works as an accessible backup option given the 91% admission rate. But if stronger employment outcomes matter, the University of Arizona justifies the extra effort in the application process.