Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona's entrepreneurship program produces graduates earning $64,211 their first year—42% more than the typical entrepreneurship graduate nationwide and 38% more than Arizona's state median. Among the five Arizona schools offering this degree, only ASU posts comparable first-year numbers, making this one of the strongest entrepreneurship programs in the state despite the university's relatively accessible 86% admission rate.

The financial fundamentals here are remarkably solid. Debt sits right at the state median of $23,962, translating to a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 that ranks among the most manageable in business education. Graduates see continued momentum with 20% earnings growth by year four, reaching $76,811. That trajectory suggests the program's entrepreneurial training translates into real career advancement, whether graduates launch their own ventures or apply those skills in established companies.

For parents weighing this against other Arizona options, the math is straightforward: U of A entrepreneurship grads out-earn Grand Canyon grads by $26,000 annually while carrying similar debt. The moderate sample size (30-100 graduates) provides reasonable confidence in these outcomes. If your child has genuine interest in starting or running businesses, this program delivers both the practical training and the earnings outcomes that justify the investment.