Business Administration, Management and Operations at University of Colorado Colorado Springs

This program's biggest red flag is its weak performance within Colorado—ranking in just the 25th percentile among the state's 17 business programs, with starting salaries of $43,326 falling nearly $10,000 below the state median of $53,001. When other Colorado schools like CSU Global ($69,863) and UC Boulder ($56,014) are producing much stronger outcomes, UCCS appears to be underdelivering for in-state students who could likely access better alternatives.

The debt picture offers some relief, with graduates owing $22,002—slightly below both state and national medians. However, this modest debt advantage doesn't offset the earnings gap. While the program shows decent 27% growth over four years, graduates are essentially playing catch-up to reach what their peers at stronger Colorado programs earn right out of the gate.

For Colorado families, this represents a missed opportunity. With the state's robust job market and multiple stronger business programs available, paying similar debt for below-average outcomes within your home state makes little financial sense. Consider the stronger in-state alternatives first, as the difference in earning potential could amount to tens of thousands of dollars over a career.