Analysis
Park University's business program significantly outperforms expectations for a lesser-known Missouri institution. With first-year earnings of $53,201, graduates earn 80% more than the typical Missouri business graduate ($42,524) and rank in the 80th percentile statewide. Nationally, the program places in the 77th percentile, putting it ahead of three-quarters of similar programs across the country.
The financial picture looks solid with reasonable debt of $22,472—notably lower than both national and state medians of $26,000. This creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.42, meaning graduates can realistically pay off loans within a few years. Earnings growth of 10% from year one to year four suggests decent career progression, though the program doesn't reach the salary heights of top Missouri programs like Ranken Technical College.
For families seeking strong employment outcomes without excessive debt, Park University delivers impressive value. The combination of above-average starting salaries, below-average debt, and consistent earnings growth makes this a financially sound choice that outperforms most alternatives in Missouri's competitive business education landscape.
Where Park University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Park 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Park University | $53,201 | $58,471 | +10% |
| Saint Louis University | $48,371 | $67,912 | +40% |
| Ranken Technical College | $73,200 | $64,987 | -11% |
| Westminster College | $37,667 | $61,542 | +63% |
| Truman State University | $50,422 | $60,033 | +19% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (42 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Park UniversityParkville | $16,400 | $53,201 | $58,471 | $22,472 | 0.42 |
 Ranken Technical CollegeSaint Louis | $17,490 | $73,200 | $64,987 | $26,250 | 0.36 |
 Columbia CollegeColumbia | $24,326 | $53,748 | $53,404 | $33,703 | 0.63 |
 Rockhurst UniversityKansas City | $43,420 | $51,887 | — | $23,250 | 0.45 |
 Truman State UniversityKirksville | $9,470 | $50,422 | $60,033 | $24,549 | 0.49 |
 Saint Louis UniversitySaint Louis | $53,244 | $48,371 | $67,912 | $39,516 | 0.82 |
| National Median | — | $45,703 | — | $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 Park University, approximately 39% 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 437 graduates with reported earnings and 527 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.