Business Administration, Management and Operations at Northwest University
Bachelor's Degree
northwestu.eduAnalysis
Northwest University's business graduates start strong at nearly $55,000 and climb to $71,500 within four yearsβa 31% jump that shows genuine career momentum. While the program lands at the 60th percentile among Washington business schools, it significantly outperforms the national average for this degree, ranking in the 82nd percentile nationally. Graduates earn $20,000 more than the typical business major nationwide by year four, which is substantial for a field where many programs cluster around $45,000-$50,000 in starting pay.
The $25,000 median debt sits right at the national average for business programs, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46βcomfortably manageable for most graduates. Within Washington state, some programs like City University of Seattle produce higher earners, but Northwest strikes a reasonable balance between outcomes and borrowing. The moderate sample size means individual graduate experiences will vary, but the earnings trajectory suggests employers value what graduates learn here.
For parents considering this program, the key advantage is upward mobility: graduates aren't just starting above average, they're building on that foundation. If your student is choosing between Washington business schools and cost is a factor, Northwest's combination of solid initial earnings and strong growth makes it a defensible choice, particularly compared to programs where graduates plateau after the first year.
Where Northwest University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Northwest University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northwest University | $54,779 | $71,547 | +31% |
| Northwest University-Center for Online and Extended Education | $54,779 | $71,547 | +31% |
| Seattle University | $46,598 | $70,134 | +51% |
| University of Puget Sound | $49,106 | $70,059 | +43% |
| Western Washington University | $53,402 | $68,627 | +29% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Washington
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Washington (37 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $36,035 | $54,779 | $71,547 | $25,000 | 0.46 | |
| $14,589 | $79,592 | $67,095 | $18,000 | 0.23 | |
| $4,197 | $58,058 | β | $11,305 | 0.19 | |
| $14,652 | $54,779 | $71,547 | $25,000 | 0.46 | |
| $9,286 | $53,402 | $68,627 | $17,375 | 0.33 | |
| $50,964 | $52,919 | $61,439 | $20,959 | 0.40 | |
| National Median | β | $45,703 | β | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business administration, management and operations graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Sales Managers
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 Northwest University, approximately 23% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 54 graduates with reported earnings and 69 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.