Business/Commerce at Seattle Pacific University

Seattle Pacific's business program outperforms 88% of similar programs nationwide, with first-year graduates earning $56,283—nearly $9,000 above the national median. While it ranks in the 60th percentile among Washington business programs, this reflects the state's generally strong outcomes rather than a weakness. The $22,000 median debt sits well below the national average, creating a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.39 (meaning graduates owe less than five months of their first-year salary). More impressive is the earnings trajectory: graduates see 41% income growth by year four, reaching nearly $80,000.

The real story here is value relative to selectivity. With a 91% admission rate, this is an accessible program delivering outcomes comparable to more selective schools—graduates earn more in their first year than Gonzaga alumni do (which sits at the state median), despite Gonzaga's lower acceptance rate. The $22,000 debt is manageable by any standard, and the strong earnings growth suggests graduates are building careers with genuine upside rather than hitting early plateaus.

For families seeking a business degree that combines accessibility with solid financial returns, Seattle Pacific delivers. The combination of above-average starting salaries, below-average debt, and strong earnings growth over four years makes this a financially sound choice, particularly for students who might not gain admission to more selective programs.