Median Earnings (1yr)
$52,891
76th percentile (60th in IN)
Median Debt
$27,000
4% above national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.51
Manageable
Sample Size
42
Adequate data

Analysis

Saint Mary's College delivers solid business outcomes with manageable debt, though you're not quite getting flagship-level results. That first-year median of $52,891 places graduates above the 75th percentile nationally, and among Indiana's 41 business programs, Saint Mary's ranks in the 60th percentile—respectable, if not elite. The real story emerges in year four, when earnings jump to $74,163, a 40% increase that suggests graduates are climbing into management roles faster than typical business majors.

The debt picture makes this more compelling. At $27,000, graduates owe roughly the national median for business programs, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.51—meaning the first year's salary covers nearly twice the total debt. For an 81% admission rate school, this represents strong value. You're seeing outcomes that rival more selective programs without the crushing debt loads that often accompany private college business degrees.

The caveat: Saint Mary's doesn't crack Indiana's top tier. Grace College and Ball State graduates earn $9,000-$10,000 more right out of the gate. But those schools might require different tradeoffs in selectivity, campus experience, or fit. For families prioritizing a solid return without excessive financial risk, this program delivers—just don't expect standout earnings that justify a premium price tag.

Where Saint Mary's College Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally

Saint Mary's CollegeOther 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 Saint Mary's College graduates compare to all programs nationally

Saint Mary's College graduates earn $53k, placing them in the 76th 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 Indiana

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Indiana (41 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Saint Mary's College$52,891$74,163$27,0000.51
Grace College and Theological Seminary$62,251$49,304$20,1040.32
Ball State University$60,526$59,631$20,5000.34
Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion$58,880$62,714$42,1380.72
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global$58,880$62,714$42,1380.72
Purdue University Global$57,308$52,586$45,1760.79
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Indiana

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Indiana schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Grace College and Theological Seminary
Winona Lake
$30,034$62,251$20,104
Ball State University
Muncie
$10,758$60,526$20,500
Indiana Wesleyan University-Marion
Marion
$31,168$58,880$42,138
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global
Marion
$8,216$58,880$42,138
Purdue University Global
West Lafayette
$10,110$57,308$45,176

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 Mary's College, approximately 24% 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 42 graduates with reported earnings and 42 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.