Analysis
A 0.50 debt-to-earnings ratio sounds manageable on paper, but both numbers here are estimates that warrant closer scrutiny. Based on comparable Business/Managerial Economics programs in Florida, first-year earnings around $47,600 place Stetson squarely at the state median—well behind University of Miami's $63,600 but matching larger public options like UCF. The estimated $24,000 debt load exceeds Florida's typical $17,750 for this major, likely reflecting Stetson's private school pricing against mostly public alternatives in the state.
The national picture adds important perspective: this program's estimated outcomes fall about $5,500 below the national median for Business/Managerial Economics bachelor's degrees, while carrying slightly more debt. Given Stetson's 86% admission rate and solid academic profile, parents might reasonably expect stronger differentiation from state university alternatives. The accessibility is an advantage, but the financial return—at least based on peer program patterns—doesn't show a clear premium for the private school investment.
For families weighing this option, the key question is whether Stetson's smaller classes and campus experience justify paying more for outcomes that mirror Florida's public universities. If your student has strong credentials (note that 1208 SAT is respectable but not exceptionally selective), exploring merit aid becomes critical to closing that debt gap and making the investment more defensible against UCF or similar programs.
Where Stetson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/managerial economics bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Business/Managerial Economics bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (8 total in state)
Scroll to see more →
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $55,220 | $47,648* | — | $24,000* | — | |
| $59,926 | $63,662* | $85,811 | $15,625* | 0.25 | |
| $6,368 | $47,648* | $65,911 | $23,105* | 0.48 | |
| $6,389 | $42,357* | $56,819 | $17,750* | 0.42 | |
| National Median | — | $53,219* | — | $22,250* | 0.42 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/managerial economics graduates
Economists
Environmental Economists
Financial Risk Specialists
Management Analysts
Economics Teachers, Postsecondary
Survey Researchers
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 Stetson University, approximately 35% 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.
Estimated Earnings: Actual earnings data is not available for this program (typically due to privacy thresholds when fewer than 30 graduates reported earnings). The estimate shown is based on the median of 3 similar programs in FL. Actual outcomes may vary.