Business Administration, Management and Operations at Sonoma State University
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
Sonoma State's business program stands out as an exceptional value play in California's competitive landscape. With first-year earnings of $55,001—ranking in the 82nd percentile nationally and well above both national ($45,703) and California ($49,543) medians—graduates earn significantly more than typical business majors while carrying just $17,500 in debt, roughly half the state average.
The debt picture is particularly compelling. At less than one-third of first-year earnings, this debt load is among the lowest nationally (5th percentile), making monthly payments highly manageable. Strong 27% earnings growth to nearly $70,000 by year four demonstrates solid career trajectory, positioning graduates competitively against programs at much more selective institutions.
While Sonoma State ranks in the middle tier among California business programs (60th percentile), the combination of low debt and strong earnings creates outsized return on investment. The 95% admission rate makes this accessible to most applicants, yet outcomes rival those of far more exclusive schools. For parents seeking strong employment prospects without crushing debt, this program delivers genuine value that many higher-ranked alternatives simply can't match at this price point.
Where Sonoma State 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 Sonoma State University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Sonoma State University graduates earn $55k, placing them in the 82th 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 California
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (98 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sonoma State University | $55,001 | $69,909 | $17,500 | 0.32 |
| University of California-Berkeley | $90,008 | $123,780 | $12,195 | 0.14 |
| Golden Gate University | $77,752 | $87,027 | $33,968 | 0.44 |
| California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo | $71,876 | $85,332 | $17,000 | 0.24 |
| University of Southern California | $71,668 | $87,767 | $17,375 | 0.24 |
| Pepperdine University | $69,751 | $82,688 | $28,000 | 0.40 |
| National Median | $45,703 | — | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in California
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across California schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of California-Berkeley Berkeley | $14,850 | $90,008 | $12,195 |
| Golden Gate University San Francisco | $31,243 | $77,752 | $33,968 |
| California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo San Luis Obispo | $11,075 | $71,876 | $17,000 |
| University of Southern California Los Angeles | $68,237 | $71,668 | $17,375 |
| Pepperdine University Malibu | $66,742 | $69,751 | $28,000 |
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 Sonoma State University, approximately 36% 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 416 graduates with reported earnings and 350 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.