Business Administration, Management and Operations at Saint Francis University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Saint Francis University's business program produces graduates earning notably less than typical Pennsylvania business majors—$42,706 versus the state median of $47,040—placing it in the 40th percentile statewide. While the debt load of $27,043 matches state norms, the lower starting salary means graduates face a tighter financial squeeze early on.
The program shows steady 10% earnings growth to $47,037 by year four, essentially catching up to where most Pennsylvania business graduates start. This delayed trajectory matters for students comparing offers: attending a program like University of Pittsburgh (starting at $62,675) means earning roughly $80,000 more over those crucial first four years. One positive: Saint Francis students carry relatively modest debt for a private institution, keeping the debt-to-earnings ratio manageable at 0.63.
The major caveat here is sample size—fewer than 30 recent graduates means these numbers could swing significantly with just a handful of different outcomes. For families confident in their student's ability to network aggressively and willing to accept below-market early earnings, Saint Francis offers a traditional campus experience at a reasonable debt level. But parents should recognize they're likely paying for the small-school environment rather than superior career outcomes.
Where Saint Francis University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations 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 Saint Francis University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Saint Francis University graduates earn $43k, placing them in the 36th 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 Pennsylvania
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Pennsylvania (82 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saint Francis University | $42,706 | $47,037 | $27,043 | 0.63 |
| Carnegie Mellon University | $95,891 | $123,200 | $23,250 | 0.24 |
| University of Pennsylvania | $91,443 | $90,686 | $20,348 | 0.22 |
| Lehigh University | $69,289 | $86,039 | $20,500 | 0.30 |
| Franklin and Marshall College | $64,664 | $77,821 | $19,500 | 0.30 |
| University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus | $62,675 | $74,000 | $21,000 | 0.34 |
| National Median | $45,703 | — | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Pennsylvania
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Pennsylvania schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carnegie Mellon University Pittsburgh | $63,829 | $95,891 | $23,250 |
| University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia | $66,104 | $91,443 | $20,348 |
| Lehigh University Bethlehem | $62,180 | $69,289 | $20,500 |
| Franklin and Marshall College Lancaster | $68,380 | $64,664 | $19,500 |
| University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus Pittsburgh | $21,524 | $62,675 | $21,000 |
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 Saint Francis University, approximately 18% 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 29 graduates with reported earnings and 46 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.