Analysis
A bachelor's in Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations at Tabor carries an estimated debt load of $25,396—slightly above the national median for this field—while peer programs nationally suggest first-year earnings around $45,265. That 0.56 debt-to-earnings ratio falls within reasonable bounds, though Kansas programs in this field typically show lower debt ($21,287 median) and lower earnings ($39,646 median). Kansas State's actual reported outcome of $39,646 confirms that entrepreneurship degrees in Kansas tend to underperform the national average, making Tabor's estimated figures look optimistic by comparison.
The challenge with small business and entrepreneurship programs is that outcomes vary wildly based on individual ventures and career paths—some graduates launch successful businesses while others take corporate roles with steadier but lower starting salaries. Since both the earnings and debt figures here are estimates drawn from peer institutions rather than Tabor's actual graduate outcomes, there's additional uncertainty about whether this specific program delivers value comparable to similar schools.
For parents, the key question is whether your student plans to start a business immediately (where these salary projections may not apply) or pursue a traditional career path where this degree might compete with general business majors. The debt burden is manageable if earnings materialize near the national benchmark, but Kansas's track record suggests tempering expectations.
Where Tabor College Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all entrepreneurial and small business operations bachelors's programs nationally
Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas
Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (8 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr)* | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt* | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $35,050 | $45,265* | — | $25,396* | — | |
| $10,942 | $39,646* | — | $21,287* | 0.54 | |
| National Median | — | $45,265* | — | $24,125* | 0.53 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with entrepreneurial and small business operations graduates
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Personal Service Managers, All Other
Fitness and Wellness Coordinators
Spa Managers
Managers, All Other
Regulatory Affairs Managers
Compliance Managers
Loss Prevention Managers
Wind Energy Operations 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 Tabor College, approximately 38% 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 national median of 67 similar programs. Actual outcomes may vary.