Business Administration, Management and Operations at Piedmont University

Piedmont University's business program occupies comfortable middle ground, delivering slightly above-average outcomes at a reasonable price. While first-year earnings of $45,404 essentially match the national median, the program ranks in the 60th percentile among Georgia schools—a meaningful distinction in a state where you're competing against 54 programs for local jobs. The $27,000 debt load sits comfortably below both state and national medians, yielding a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.59.

The challenge here is the earnings ceiling. Four years out, graduates earn $48,488—solid for covering bills but far below what you'd see from Georgia Tech ($74k) or UGA ($57k). This isn't surprising given Piedmont's 93% admission rate and profile as a regional access institution, but it matters if your child has options at more selective programs. The modest 7% earnings growth suggests graduates establish stable but not spectacular career trajectories.

For families prioritizing affordability and regional employment in North Georgia, this program delivers predictable value without financial strain. But if your student can gain admission to Georgia's flagship or technical colleges, the long-term earnings difference—potentially $20,000+ annually—would justify the more competitive environment. Piedmont works best as a value play for students who need accessible admissions and reasonable debt, not those chasing corporate ladders.