Median Earnings (1yr)
$43,805
41st percentile (60th in NY)
Median Debt
$21,500
17% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.49
Manageable
Sample Size
728
Adequate data

Analysis

The University at Buffalo's business program delivers solid value despite modest starting salaries. While graduates begin earning $43,805—slightly below the national average—they see impressive 34% earnings growth by year four, reaching $58,621. More importantly, the program ranks in the 60th percentile among New York business programs, meaning it outperforms most in-state competitors while keeping debt manageable at $21,500.

The debt picture is particularly attractive compared to both national and state benchmarks. With a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.49, graduates can realistically pay off their loans within two years of starting salary. The program costs about $3,500 less than the typical New York business program and $4,500 less than the national average, making it one of the more affordable options in an expensive state.

While UB won't deliver the elite outcomes of Manhattan University or Syracuse, it provides a practical path to business careers without crushing debt. The strong earnings trajectory suggests graduates develop valuable skills that employers increasingly reward. For families seeking solid returns on their education investment in New York, this program offers a compelling middle ground between cost and career prospects.

Where University at Buffalo Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally

University at BuffaloOther 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 University at Buffalo graduates compare to all programs nationally

University at Buffalo graduates earn $44k, placing them in the 41th 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 New York

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in New York (94 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University at Buffalo$43,805$58,621$21,5000.49
Manhattan University$113,777$104,296$25,3280.22
Excelsior University$70,191—$14,7370.21
Clarkson University$65,887$76,141$24,7570.38
Syracuse University$65,009$71,365$27,0000.42
Yeshiva University$61,312$65,800$22,0000.36
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in New York

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across New York schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
Manhattan University
Riverdale
$50,850$113,777$25,328
Excelsior University
Albany
—$70,191$14,737
Clarkson University
Potsdam
$57,950$65,887$24,757
Syracuse University
Syracuse
$63,061$65,009$27,000
Yeshiva University
New York
$49,900$61,312$22,000

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 University at Buffalo, approximately 32% 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 728 graduates with reported earnings and 749 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.