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
Earnings Distribution
How Pittsburg State 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pittsburg State University | $46,738 | $50,671 | +8% |
| New York University | $77,828 | $115,546 | +48% |
| Wake Forest University | $76,722 | $91,708 | +20% |
| Northeastern University | $74,868 | $91,376 | +22% |
| University of Kansas | $49,339 | $60,067 | +22% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas
Business/Commerce bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (9 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Pittsburg State UniversityPittsburg | $8,008 | $46,738 | $50,671 | $23,015 | 0.49 |
 Kansas State UniversityManhattan | $10,942 | $54,223 | — | $29,705 | 0.55 |
 University of KansasLawrence | $11,700 | $49,339 | $60,067 | $24,480 | 0.50 |
 Bethel College-North NewtonNorth Newton | $34,002 | $34,879 | — | $27,000 | 0.77 |
| National Median | — | $47,506 | — | $26,000 | 0.55 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/commerce graduates
Sales Managers
Industrial Production Managers
Quality Control Systems Managers
Geothermal Production Managers
Biofuels Production Managers
Biomass Power Plant Managers
Hydroelectric Production Managers
Construction Managers
Administrative Services Managers
Facilities Managers
Security Managers
Chief Executives
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.