Business/Managerial Economics at University of Dayton

The University of Dayton's Business/Managerial Economics program delivers strong career trajectory despite a middling start. While first-year earnings of $55,871 trail Ohio's state median by about $4,300, graduates see remarkable momentum—earnings jump 48% by year four to reach $82,448. That four-year figure significantly outpaces both the national median and the Ohio average, suggesting this program builds skills that become increasingly valuable with experience.

The 40th percentile ranking within Ohio might alarm parents at first glance, but it reflects an unusually strong state landscape where Miami and Ohio State set the pace. More importantly, Dayton graduates reach higher absolute earnings by year four than many programs that start stronger. The debt burden of $24,548 is quite manageable at just 0.44 times first-year earnings—you'd struggle to find many business programs with this combination of reasonable borrowing and strong mid-career performance.

For families who can wait out the slower initial earnings phase, this represents solid value. The program clearly develops competencies that employers reward over time, making it particularly suitable for students who can afford some financial patience in their early twenties. Just don't expect your graduate to match Ohio State salaries right out of the gate.