Analysis
Business administration graduates from Alabama programs typically earn around $41,000 in their first year—roughly $5,000 below the national median for this credential. Stillman's estimated outcomes align with this state baseline, though top-performing Alabama programs like Auburn and The University of Alabama produce graduates earning $48,000 to $57,000, suggesting significant variation even within the state.
The estimated $31,000 debt load—based on comparable private institutions in Alabama—translates to a 0.76 debt-to-earnings ratio. That means students would carry debt equivalent to roughly nine months of their first-year salary. While manageable compared to some programs, this represents a heavier burden than the national median debt of $26,000 for business degrees. For families at Stillman, where 68% of students receive Pell grants, every additional dollar of debt matters for post-graduation financial stability.
The gap between Stillman's estimated outcomes and the state's strongest business programs is worth noting—those top five schools produce 20-40% higher first-year earnings. Without actual outcome data for Stillman specifically, families should dig deeper: talk to recent alumni about their job placements, examine career services support, and understand what connections the program offers in the Tuscaloosa business community. The business degree itself is versatile, but the specific school's network and employer relationships often determine whether graduates land at that $41,000 baseline or climb toward $50,000-plus.
Where Stillman College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Alabama
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Alabama (31 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11,392 | $40,689* | — | $31,042* | — | |
| $5,808 | $58,468* | $57,593 | $31,284* | 0.54 | |
| $12,536 | $56,948* | $66,560 | $22,250* | 0.39 | |
| $13,420 | $52,469* | $55,767 | $46,792* | 0.89 | |
| — | $49,436* | $53,197 | $28,250* | 0.57 | |
| $11,900 | $48,668* | $57,872 | $25,000* | 0.51 | |
| National Median | — | $45,703* | — | $26,000* | 0.57 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business administration, management and operations graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Sales Managers
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 Stillman College, approximately 68% 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 21 similar programs in AL. Actual outcomes may vary.