Median Earnings (1yr)
$40,704
5th percentile (40th in LA)
Median Debt
$15,438
34% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.38
Manageable
Sample Size
22
Limited data

Analysis

Southeastern Louisiana's finance program sits right at Louisiana's median for first-year earnings ($40,704 vs. $42,018 statewide), though the small sample size—fewer than 30 graduates—means these figures could shift significantly year to year. The real story here is the debt burden: at $15,438, graduates leave with roughly $6,000 less debt than the Louisiana median and nearly $8,000 less than the national average. That low debt matters because first-year earnings lag considerably behind both state and national benchmarks.

The 56% earnings jump by year four—reaching $63,542—suggests graduates find their footing after that initial period. This eventual trajectory actually outpaces what LSU grads earn ($54,408 one year out) and exceeds Louisiana Tech's outcomes. Whether that growth pattern holds with larger cohorts remains uncertain, but the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.38 gives graduates breathing room that many finance majors at pricier programs don't get.

For families prioritizing minimal debt over immediate earnings, this program delivers value, especially if your student plans to stay in Louisiana where these outcomes are competitive. Just recognize you're evaluating thin data—actual results for your student could vary more than usual. The low debt provides downside protection that becomes particularly valuable given that uncertainty.

Where Southeastern Louisiana University Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally

Southeastern Louisiana UniversityOther finance and financial management services programs

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 Southeastern Louisiana University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Southeastern Louisiana University graduates earn $41k, placing them in the 5th percentile of all finance and financial management services 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 Louisiana

Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Louisiana (13 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Southeastern Louisiana University$40,704$63,542$15,4380.38
Tulane University of Louisiana$77,806$89,537$21,5000.28
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College$54,408$71,935$19,5000.36
McNeese State University$49,216$42,641$27,8600.57
Louisiana Tech University$42,018$62,932$17,5000.42
University of Louisiana at Lafayette$40,495$46,582$26,4000.65
National Median$53,590—$23,3320.44

Other Finance and Financial Management Services Programs in Louisiana

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Louisiana schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Tulane University of Louisiana
New Orleans
$65,538$77,806$21,500
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Baton Rouge
$11,954$54,408$19,500
McNeese State University
Lake Charles
$8,460$49,216$27,860
Louisiana Tech University
Ruston
$10,125$42,018$17,500
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Lafayette
$10,418$40,495$26,400

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 Southeastern Louisiana University, approximately 33% 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 22 graduates with reported earnings and 29 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.