Business Administration, Management and Operations at Oakland City University

Oakland City's business program starts reasonably strong at $49,245—matching Indiana's median and performing better than 60% of in-state competitors. But there's a catch: earnings drop 13% by year four to $43,025, falling below even the national median. This backward trajectory is unusual and suggests graduates may be landing jobs that don't offer typical career progression, or that initial placements don't lead to advancement opportunities.

The debt load of $25,875 is manageable at first—about half the initial salary—but becomes less attractive as earnings decline. While this ranks in the middle of the pack both nationally and within Indiana, you're essentially paying typical costs for below-average long-term outcomes. The state's top programs like Grace College and Ball State show earnings above $60,000, suggesting stronger business programs exist within reasonable distance.

For Indiana families, this program offers a safe first-year landing spot but questionable momentum. If your student is choosing Oakland City for other reasons—location, community, or fit—it's not a financial disaster. But purely as a business degree investment, the declining earnings pattern should prompt serious questions about career services and alumni networks. Programs that match Oakland City's tuition should be moving earnings upward, not backward.