Business Administration, Management and Operations at Southeast Missouri State University

Southeast Missouri State's business program starts slow but delivers substantial earnings growth that parents should factor into their assessment. Graduates earn $41,604 in their first year—about 9% below the national median for business programs—but jump to $59,502 by year four. That 43% growth rate suggests graduates are gaining traction in the job market, though the program ranks in just the 40th percentile among Missouri business schools.

The debt picture offers a genuine advantage: at $22,988, graduates carry about $3,000 less debt than both state and national medians. The 0.55 debt-to-earnings ratio is manageable, even with the modest starting salary. That lower debt load creates financial breathing room during those early career years when earnings are still building. For students who plan to work their way up in traditional business hierarchies rather than chase high-starting MBA-track positions, this combination makes sense.

However, context matters here. Stronger Missouri programs like Truman State ($50,422 first-year earnings) and Park University ($53,201) demonstrate that notably higher outcomes are achievable in-state. If your child can gain admission to these alternatives, the $8,000-12,000 earnings difference in year one is worth serious consideration, even if it means slightly higher debt. For students already committed to Southeast Missouri for location or fit reasons, this program won't create financial hardship—but it's solidly middle-of-the-pack rather than a standout value.