Business Administration, Management and Operations at Southern University and A & M College

Southern University's business program sits right at Louisiana's midpoint for earnings—its $49,195 four-year salary matches the state's median almost exactly. That means it's performing as expected for Louisiana, even while trailing the national average by about $3,500. The real challenge lies in the comparison to the state's top programs: graduates from Tulane and even regional options like McNeese State earn $12,000-$15,000 more annually, creating a meaningful gap in lifetime earnings potential.

The $31,000 debt load is actually higher than both state and national medians for business programs, resulting in a year-one salary that barely exceeds what graduates owe. The positive news is that earnings grow steadily—30% from year one to year four—suggesting career progression is happening. However, that growth doesn't close the gap with stronger programs, and the debt burden makes the first few years financially tight. With 65% of students receiving Pell grants, many families here are relying on this degree as an economic mobility tool.

For families with in-state tuition options, the question becomes whether Southern University offers enough value over other Louisiana public schools where graduates earn similar amounts but typically carry less debt. The program serves its students adequately within Louisiana's market, but the combination of below-average starting salaries and above-average debt creates a narrower margin for error than you'd find at McNeese State or Louisiana Tech.