Analysis
A $26,500 debt load for a bachelor's in business—estimated from similar private universities—sits right at the national median for this degree, while comparable programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $50,740. That debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.52 falls within a reasonable range, though it's worth noting these figures come from peer institutions rather than Palm Beach Atlantic's own graduates, meaning actual outcomes could vary.
The bigger question is whether a private Christian university delivering business fundamentals at this price point makes sense when Florida offers numerous public alternatives. With an 88% admission rate and average SAT of 1101, PBA serves a broad student population, and only 25% receive Pell grants—suggesting this is primarily an option for families who can afford private tuition. Business programs at this level typically produce similar career readiness regardless of institutional prestige, so you're essentially paying for the smaller campus environment and faith-based mission rather than measurably better employment prospects.
If the religious component and community feel matter significantly to your family, the estimated debt burden isn't catastrophic. But run the actual cost of attendance against your household budget carefully—these estimates assume median borrowing, and your child could end up with considerably more debt depending on financial aid. Compare the net price here against what a business degree would cost at a state university before committing.
Where Palm Beach Atlantic University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business, management, marketing, bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs Nationally
Business, Management, Marketing, bachelors's programs at top institutions nationally
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $37,990 | $50,740* | — | $26,500* | — | |
| $13,120 | $82,115* | — | $29,062* | 0.35 | |
| $16,450 | $80,842* | — | $15,697* | 0.19 | |
| $41,010 | $73,382* | $78,432 | $27,000* | 0.37 | |
| $59,070 | $72,850* | $89,485 | $26,500* | 0.36 | |
| $58,150 | $70,365* | $89,440 | $26,000* | 0.37 | |
| National Median | — | $50,740* | — | $26,000* | 0.51 |
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 Palm Beach Atlantic University, approximately 25% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the national median of 31 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.