Median Earnings (1yr)
$54,772
82nd percentile (60th in MD)
Median Debt
$19,251
26% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.35
Manageable
Sample Size
546
Adequate data

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 0.35—meaning 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 programs—solidly middle-of-the-pack—it 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

Towson UniversityOther business administration, management and operations programs

Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.

Earnings Distribution

How Towson University graduates compare to all programs nationally

Towson University graduates earn $55k, placing them in the 82th percentile of all business administration, management and operations bachelors programs nationally.

Earnings Over Time

How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation

Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.

Compare to Similar Programs in Maryland

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maryland (20 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
Towson University$54,772$67,968$19,2510.35
University of Maryland-College Park$65,842$88,783$20,5000.31
University of Maryland Global Campus$62,634$67,858$21,5270.34
Loyola University Maryland$60,656$79,298$27,0000.45
McDaniel College$59,048$70,755$25,0000.42
Stevenson University$52,442$58,239$26,7730.51
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Maryland

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Maryland schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of Maryland-College Park
College Park
$11,505$65,842$20,500
University of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi
$7,992$62,634$21,527
Loyola University Maryland
Baltimore
$55,480$60,656$27,000
McDaniel College
Westminster
$49,647$59,048$25,000
Stevenson University
Owings Mills
$39,708$52,442$26,773

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.