Business Administration, Management and Operations at Salve Regina University

Salve Regina's business program starts behind both state and national benchmarks but demonstrates something valuable: substantial earnings growth. While first-year graduates earn $42,831—below Rhode Island's $46,991 median and trailing in-state competitors like Bryant ($65,045) and URI ($55,160)—earnings jump 36% by year four to $58,191. That's a stronger trajectory than the typical business graduate sees, suggesting the program or its alumni network enables meaningful career progression once students establish themselves.

The debt picture offers some relief. At $27,000, it matches both state and national medians, creating a manageable 0.63 debt-to-earnings ratio at graduation. For families prioritizing low borrowing, this beats many alternatives. However, context matters: you're paying similar debt for below-average starting outcomes. The 40th percentile ranking among Rhode Island business programs places this solidly in the middle of the pack—acceptable but unremarkable in a state where Bryant and URI dominate business education.

The calculation here depends on your priorities. If your child learns better at a smaller school with personal attention (15% Pell grant enrollment suggests a more affluent student body), the eventual earnings might justify the slower start. But families seeking maximum return on investment should recognize that Rhode Island offers clearly stronger options at similar or lower debt levels. The growth trajectory is encouraging, though it requires patience through those lean early years.