Business/Managerial Economics at Oklahoma State University-Main Campus

The small sample size here demands caution, but the numbers tell a troubling story: OSU's Business/Managerial Economics graduates earn just $40,413 their first year out—nearly $13,000 below the state median and landing in the bottom 5% nationally. Even within Oklahoma's limited market, this program ranks at only the 25th percentile, while OU graduates in the same field earn $55,460. That's a $15,000 annual difference that compounds significantly over a career.

The debt load of $21,250 sits slightly below both state and national medians, which provides some relief. The 0.53 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates carry about six months of gross salary in loans—manageable in theory, but only if those earnings grow substantially. For a business degree at a state flagship, these starting salaries are surprisingly low, especially when many entry-level corporate positions now start above $45,000.

Given the limited sample, these figures might not represent the typical graduate's experience. However, if you're paying out-of-state tuition or taking on significantly more debt than the median, the value proposition weakens considerably. For in-state students with minimal debt, this remains an affordable credential, but families should understand they're likely looking at below-average earnings potential compared to similar programs even within Oklahoma. Consider whether specific career goals or connections at OSU justify accepting lower starting pay than peer institutions offer.