Business/Commerce at Strayer University-Pennsylvania

Strayer University's business program delivers strong graduate earnings that significantly outperform both national and state benchmarks, but comes with a hefty price tag that demands serious consideration. At $55,431 in first-year earnings, graduates earn 17% more than the national median and 21% more than Pennsylvania's median for business programs. This performance places the program in the 81st percentile nationally—a genuinely impressive outcome that rivals earnings at Albright College, one of Pennsylvania's top performers.

However, the financial trade-off is substantial. With median debt of $56,517, students graduate owing more than double the typical business program debt both nationally ($26,000) and in Pennsylvania ($26,625). The debt-to-earnings ratio of 1.02 means graduates owe roughly what they'll earn in their first year—a concerning burden that could limit financial flexibility for years. While earnings do grow to nearly $60,000 by year four, that 8% increase is modest given the debt load.

For families considering this program, the key question is whether the premium earnings justify the premium price. The strong graduate outcomes suggest quality career preparation, but the debt burden is real and immediate. This could work for students confident in their career trajectory and comfortable with higher loan payments, but families should carefully weigh whether similar outcomes might be achievable at Pennsylvania's many lower-cost alternatives.