Business Administration, Management and Operations at The University of Montana

The University of Montana's business program starts below the Montana median but shows impressive trajectory, with earnings jumping from $37,784 to $55,000 over four years—a 46% gain that eventually outpaces most in-state alternatives. While the initial salary lands in just the 17th percentile nationally and 40th within Montana, that four-year mark pulls ahead of the state median and puts graduates within striking distance of schools like Rocky Mountain College.

The debt load of $23,923 sits slightly below Montana's median and translates to a manageable 0.63 debt-to-earnings ratio at graduation. This becomes increasingly favorable as earnings climb—by year four, graduates are earning more than double their debt balance. The catch is that first-year lag: students will likely need parental support or additional resources during those early career years when earnings are substantially below both state and national averages.

For families comfortable with Montana's in-state tuition and willing to take a longer view, this program delivers solid value through its growth curve. The real question is whether your student can navigate those first couple of years with lower earnings, either through living at home, side income, or family support. If patience is an option, the math works increasingly in your favor.