Business Administration, Management and Operations at Salem University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Salem University's business program occupies middle ground in West Virginia but stands out for keeping debt remarkably low. With graduates earning $45,834 in their first year—above the state median of $42,738 and ranking in the 60th percentile among West Virginia business programs—the school delivers competitive outcomes for the region. More impressive is the debt load: at $31,000, it sits in the 16th percentile nationally, meaning 84% of business programs nationwide saddle students with more debt.
That 0.68 debt-to-earnings ratio translates to manageable monthly payments for most graduates, especially important given that half of Salem's students receive Pell grants. While graduates from University of Charleston or American Public University earn $15,000-$18,000 more annually, they also typically carry higher debt loads. Salem's approach—solid regional earnings with below-average debt—creates a viable path for students who need to minimize borrowing.
The program won't position graduates for the highest-paying business roles, but for families prioritizing affordability alongside employability in the West Virginia job market, this combination makes financial sense. The moderate sample size suggests consistent outcomes across graduates.
Where Salem 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 Salem University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Salem University graduates earn $46k, placing them in the 50th percentile of all business administration, management and operations bachelors programs nationally.
Compare to Similar Programs in West Virginia
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in West Virginia (19 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Salem University | $45,834 | — | $31,000 | 0.68 |
| University of Charleston | $63,623 | $50,544 | $13,666 | 0.21 |
| American Public University System | $61,687 | $64,308 | $20,490 | 0.33 |
| Potomac State College of West Virginia University | $49,634 | $60,001 | $25,242 | 0.51 |
| West Virginia University | $49,634 | $60,001 | $25,242 | 0.51 |
| West Virginia University at Parkersburg | $44,419 | $47,593 | — | — |
| National Median | $45,703 | — | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in West Virginia
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across West Virginia schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Charleston Charleston | $32,842 | $63,623 | $13,666 |
| American Public University System Charles Town | $8,400 | $61,687 | $20,490 |
| Potomac State College of West Virginia University Keyser | $5,040 | $49,634 | $25,242 |
| West Virginia University Morgantown | $9,648 | $49,634 | $25,242 |
| West Virginia University at Parkersburg Parkersburg | $4,420 | $44,419 | — |
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 Salem University, approximately 51% 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 67 graduates with reported earnings and 93 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.