Business/Commerce at St. Thomas University

Based on comparable business programs across Florida, St. Thomas University's bachelor's degree tracks right at the state median—an estimated $46,350 in first-year earnings against $26,000 in debt. That 0.56 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within reasonable territory, suggesting graduates could manage payments on a standard ten-year plan without financial strain. However, the nearly universal admission rate and below-average Pell enrollment (25% versus typical levels at accessible institutions) raises questions about whether this program serves the students most likely to benefit from a business degree's earning potential.

The challenge here is that peer programs in Florida show significant spread. For-profit institutions like DeVry and Strayer report outcomes above $55,000, while even public flagships like Florida State clock in around $47,000. St. Thomas sits in the middle-to-lower range of what's typical for Florida business degrees, neither standout nor worrisome. The estimated figures align with national benchmarks too—the program appears to deliver roughly what you'd expect from an average business bachelor's degree.

For families weighing this investment, the key question is differentiation. At this debt level, your child needs to extract clear value—whether through networking, internship access, or career services—that justifies choosing St. Thomas over less expensive state options or programs with stronger reported outcomes. Without actual graduate data from this specific program, you're banking on St. Thomas delivering results consistent with the Florida average, not better.