Analysis
University of Delaware's finance program ranks in the 93rd percentile nationally for graduate earnings—a standout performance that translates to real financial advantages for students. With first-year graduates earning $66,889 compared to the national median of $53,590, your child would start their career with a $13,000+ annual advantage. The strong earnings trajectory continues, reaching nearly $84,000 by year four, representing solid 26% growth that suggests graduates are advancing into higher-level positions.
The debt picture reinforces this program's value. At $24,073, student debt sits below both the national median and Delaware's state average, while the debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.36 means graduates can realistically manage loan payments on their starting salaries. Within Delaware, this program ranks in the 60th percentile—respectable considering there are only four finance programs in the state, and it significantly outperforms the only other major option at Wilmington University.
This represents one of the stronger finance programs nationally with manageable debt levels. The combination of above-average starting salaries, healthy earnings growth, and below-average debt creates a favorable financial foundation for your child's career. Given the robust sample size of 100+ graduates, these outcomes appear reliable and sustainable.
Where University of Delaware Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Delaware graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Delaware | $66,889 | $83,952 | +26% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $122,698 | $206,646 | +68% |
| Washington University in St Louis | $102,814 | $152,625 | +48% |
| Georgetown University | $106,218 | $126,672 | +19% |
| Southern Methodist University | $83,159 | $113,839 | +37% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Delaware
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Delaware (4 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $16,080 | $66,889 | $83,952 | $24,073 | 0.36 | |
| $12,330 | $49,275 | — | $31,000 | 0.63 | |
| National Median | — | $53,590 | — | $23,332 | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with finance and financial management services graduates
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Personal Financial Advisors
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial Risk Specialists
Budget Analysts
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Insurance Underwriters
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 Delaware, 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 359 graduates with reported earnings and 275 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.