Business Administration, Management and Operations at University of Dayton
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
University of Dayton's business program places graduates in the top 5% nationally for earnings—an impressive outcome considering the school's relatively open admissions profile. Starting at $64K and reaching $76K by year four, these graduates earn nearly $30K more than the typical Ohio business graduate ($46K) and sit comfortably in the 80th percentile statewide. Among Ohio's business schools, only Miami and Ohio State consistently produce higher earners, and Dayton achieves this with manageable debt of $23K—about $3K less than both state and national medians.
The 0.37 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe roughly four and a half months of their first year's salary, a manageable burden that most can handle without financial strain. The steady earnings growth to $76K suggests Dayton's network and curriculum translate into real career progression, not just strong placement rates.
For families weighing private versus public options in Ohio, Dayton delivers outcomes that rival flagship universities while maintaining accessibility. The program punches above its weight class: you're getting earnings that compete with more selective schools, paired with debt levels that won't derail other financial goals. This represents solid value for a business degree.
Where University of Dayton Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
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 of Dayton graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Dayton graduates earn $64k, placing them in the 95th 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 Ohio
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Ohio (64 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Dayton | $63,897 | $75,643 | $23,364 | 0.37 |
| Miami University-Oxford | $67,823 | $84,103 | $25,000 | 0.37 |
| Ohio State University-Main Campus | $61,423 | $73,933 | $23,250 | 0.38 |
| Bowling Green State University-Main Campus | $60,807 | $70,489 | $25,000 | 0.41 |
| University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | $60,360 | $77,827 | $23,452 | 0.39 |
| Ashland University | $58,580 | $62,979 | $26,889 | 0.46 |
| National Median | $45,703 | — | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Ohio
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Ohio schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami University-Oxford Oxford | $17,809 | $67,823 | $25,000 |
| Ohio State University-Main Campus Columbus | $12,859 | $61,423 | $23,250 |
| Bowling Green State University-Main Campus Bowling Green | $14,081 | $60,807 | $25,000 |
| University of Cincinnati-Main Campus Cincinnati | $13,570 | $60,360 | $23,452 |
| Ashland University Ashland | $28,910 | $58,580 | $26,889 |
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 of Dayton, approximately 16% 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 30 graduates with reported earnings and 25 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.