Analysis
Towson University's business program delivers strong value despite flying under the radar. With starting salaries of $54,772 and debt of just $19,251, graduates face a very manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.35βmeaning they'll earn back their investment in about four months of work. The program ranks in the 82nd percentile nationally for earnings, significantly outperforming the national median of $45,703.
The Maryland context reveals both strengths and limitations. While Towson ranks 60th percentile among state business programsβsolidly middle-of-the-packβit substantially outperforms the state median salary of $51,562. More importantly, students graduate with roughly $6,000 less debt than the typical Maryland business student. The program trails flagship University of Maryland-College Park by about $11,000 in starting salary, but that gap narrows when you consider Towson's lower debt burden and strong 24% earnings growth over four years.
For families seeking a business degree with minimal financial risk, Towson offers compelling value. The combination of above-average starting salaries, very low debt, and Towson's accessible 83% admission rate makes this an excellent safety net choice that won't compromise your child's financial future. While it may not have the prestige of UMD-College Park, the superior debt profile makes it worth serious consideration.
Where Towson University Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How Towson University graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Towson University | $54,772 | $67,968 | +24% |
| University of Maryland-College Park | $65,842 | $88,783 | +35% |
| Loyola University Maryland | $60,656 | $79,298 | +31% |
| McDaniel College | $59,048 | $70,755 | +20% |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | $62,634 | $67,858 | +8% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Maryland
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maryland (20 total in state)
Scroll to see more β
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11,306 | $54,772 | $67,968 | $19,251 | 0.35 | |
| $11,505 | $65,842 | $88,783 | $20,500 | 0.31 | |
| $7,992 | $62,634 | $67,858 | $21,527 | 0.34 | |
| $55,480 | $60,656 | $79,298 | $27,000 | 0.45 | |
| $49,647 | $59,048 | $70,755 | $25,000 | 0.42 | |
| $39,708 | $52,442 | $58,239 | $26,773 | 0.51 | |
| National Median | β | $45,703 | β | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business administration, management and operations graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Sales 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 Towson University, approximately 33% 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.
Sample Size: Based on 546 graduates with reported earnings and 516 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.