Business Administration, Management and Operations at Stetson University

Stetson's business program starts weak but shows something intriguing: graduates earning $35,009 in their first year jump to $49,621 by year four—a 42% increase that's substantially better than most business programs deliver. However, that initial figure is deeply concerning, landing in just the 5th percentile nationally and below three-quarters of Florida business programs. For a private university charging prices that lead to $23,750 in debt, starting at barely above minimum wage full-time earnings should make parents question the return.

The growth trajectory suggests graduates eventually find their footing, but four years is a long time to wait when you're carrying debt. Even at the four-year mark, earnings remain about $14,000 below Florida's median for this degree and roughly $30,000 less than what graduates from Embry-Riddle or Florida Tech command. The debt load is typical, but typical debt paired with bottom-tier starting salaries creates real financial strain during those critical early repayment years.

Unless your child has compelling reasons to attend Stetson specifically—strong family connections, unique program features, or significant merit aid that reduces the debt burden—Florida's public universities or higher-performing private options offer better economic outcomes for business majors. The eventual earnings growth doesn't offset the handicap of starting so far behind.