Business/Commerce at Pittsburg State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Pittsburg State's business program lands squarely in the middle of the pack, with first-year earnings of $46,738 trailing both the national median ($47,506) and the Kansas median ($48,038). Among the state's nine business programs, this ranks in just the 40th percentile—meaning six in ten Kansas business schools produce higher-earning graduates. The gap widens when you compare to flagship programs: Kansas State grads earn $7,500 more right out of the gate.
The debt picture offers some relief. At $23,015, graduates owe about $3,000 less than typical business majors nationally and in Kansas. That translates to a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49, meaning the average graduate could theoretically pay off their debt in six months if they devoted half their income to it. Earnings growth of 8% over four years is modest but steady, reaching $50,671.
For families prioritizing affordability over earnings potential, Pittsburg State delivers a business degree without crushing debt. But if your student could gain admission to Kansas State or KU, the higher starting salaries would likely justify any additional cost—especially since KU grads earn only about $2,700 more annually while Kansas State's premium is substantial. This program works best for students seeking a solid middle-tier option close to home.
Where Pittsburg State University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/commerce bachelors's programs nationally
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 Pittsburg State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Pittsburg State University graduates earn $47k, placing them in the 46th percentile of all business/commerce 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 Kansas
Business/Commerce bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (9 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pittsburg State University | $46,738 | $50,671 | $23,015 | 0.49 |
| Kansas State University | $54,223 | — | $29,705 | 0.55 |
| University of Kansas | $49,339 | $60,067 | $24,480 | 0.50 |
| Bethel College-North Newton | $34,879 | — | $27,000 | 0.77 |
| National Median | $47,506 | — | $26,000 | 0.55 |
Other Business/Commerce Programs in Kansas
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Kansas schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kansas State University Manhattan | $10,942 | $54,223 | $29,705 |
| University of Kansas Lawrence | $11,700 | $49,339 | $24,480 |
| Bethel College-North Newton North Newton | $34,002 | $34,879 | $27,000 |
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 Pittsburg State University, approximately 32% 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 91 graduates with reported earnings and 94 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.