Analysis
A $26,750 estimated debt load for a finance degree falls right in line with what similar programs in Massachusetts typically produce, but the bigger question is whether Simmons can compete with the state's finance powerhouses. While comparable programs in MA suggest first-year earnings around $55,900—essentially matching the state median—that figure looks modest against what Boston College ($82,495) and Bentley ($72,309) graduates command. Even UMass-Amherst finance grads start nearly $13,000 higher based on reported outcomes.
The 0.48 debt-to-earnings ratio itself isn't alarming, and Simmons' strong SAT profile (1332) suggests academically capable students. But finance is an intensely network- and brand-driven field in Boston's competitive market, where internship pipelines and alumni connections often matter as much as classroom learning. If these estimates hold, graduates would need about six months of earnings to cover their debt—manageable, certainly—but they'd be entering a job market where peers from nearby schools are landing noticeably higher-paying positions right out of the gate.
Before committing, ask Simmons directly about their finance-specific placement outcomes and where recent graduates have actually landed jobs. The estimated figures suggest this program delivers average returns, but in a city packed with finance talent and elite business programs, average may not be enough to justify the investment without strong evidence of industry connections or specialized opportunities that aren't reflected in these peer-based estimates.
Where Simmons University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Massachusetts
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Massachusetts (24 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $45,538 | $55,914* | — | $26,750* | — | |
| $67,680 | $82,495* | $110,242 | $18,000* | 0.22 | |
| $58,150 | $72,309* | $92,531 | $26,000* | 0.36 | |
| $17,357 | $68,920* | $83,610 | $23,250* | 0.34 | |
| $39,212 | $62,878* | — | $27,000* | 0.43 | |
| $54,500 | $58,832* | $90,245 | $26,000* | 0.44 | |
| National Median | — | $53,590* | — | $23,332* | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with finance and financial management services graduates
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Personal Financial Advisors
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial Risk Specialists
Budget Analysts
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Insurance Underwriters
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 Simmons University, approximately 30% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 11 similar programs in MA. Actual outcomes may vary.