Business Administration, Management and Operations at The Catholic University of America

Catholic University's business program lands squarely in the middle of DC's competitive landscape—behind Georgetown and Howard, but ahead of several regional options. With first-year earnings of $57,490, graduates earn about 26% more than the national median for business programs. However, the small sample size (fewer than 30 graduates tracked) means these numbers could shift significantly with more data.

The $26,000 median debt creates a manageable 0.45 debt-to-earnings ratio, and graduates see solid income growth of 21% by year four. What's notable is that while this program performs in the 90th percentile nationally, it drops to the 60th percentile among DC schools—a reminder that Washington's higher cost of living and concentration of prestigious universities creates tougher local competition. You're paying DC tuition rates for what's essentially a middle-tier DC outcome.

For families comfortable with the program's small track record, the math works: graduates can realistically pay down their debt while living in one of the country's most expensive metros. But if your student is considering multiple DC schools, know that Howard delivers higher earnings for similar debt, while Georgetown justifies its premium with significantly stronger placement. This works as a solid backup option, not a destination choice.