Business/Managerial Economics at Tennessee State University

Looking at Tennessee's business economics landscape, programs across the state typically produce first-year earnings around $43,400—and that's exactly where Tennessee State graduates are projected to land based on peer programs. The estimated $21,125 debt burden sits below both the state and national medians for this degree, translating to a manageable 0.49 debt-to-earnings ratio. That's solid positioning for a school serving predominantly working-class students, with over half receiving Pell grants.

The gap that matters here is national versus local. While business economics programs nationwide post median earnings near $53,200, Tennessee's market operates about $10,000 lower. The state's largest programs—UT-Knoxville and Belmont—all cluster in this $43,000-$44,000 range, suggesting Tennessee State's estimated outcomes reflect realistic regional employment patterns rather than school-specific limitations. For students planning to work in Tennessee's economy, this is the market rate.

With relatively modest debt and earnings aligned with state competitors, this program offers reasonable economics for students who need an accessible entry point into business careers. The real question isn't whether the numbers work—they're competitive for Tennessee—but whether your child's career goals require staying in-state or would benefit from programs in higher-wage markets.