Median Earnings (1yr)
$53,201
77th percentile (80th in MO)
Median Debt
$22,472
14% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.42
Manageable
Sample Size
437
Adequate data

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

Park UniversityOther business administration, management and operations programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Park University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Park University graduates earn $53k, placing them in the 77th percentile of all business administration, management and operations bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Missouri

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Missouri (42 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Park University$53,201$58,471$22,4720.42
Ranken Technical College$73,200$64,987$26,2500.36
Columbia College$53,748$53,404$33,7030.63
Rockhurst University$51,887$23,2500.45
Truman State University$50,422$60,033$24,5490.49
Saint Louis University$48,371$67,912$39,5160.82
National Median$45,703$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Missouri

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Missouri schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Ranken Technical College
Saint Louis
$17,490$73,200$26,250
Columbia College
Columbia
$24,326$53,748$33,703
Rockhurst University
Kansas City
$43,420$51,887$23,250
Truman State University
Kirksville
$9,470$50,422$24,549
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis
$53,244$48,371$39,516

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.