Business/Commerce at University of Denver

University of Denver's business program sits in an interesting middle ground—outperforming most Colorado schools while trailing national averages, all with relatively manageable debt. At $45,866 starting out, graduates earn slightly more than the Colorado median ($43,067) and land in the 60th percentile among state programs. That's respectable for Colorado, though they're earning about $1,600 less than typical business majors nationwide.

The $21,000 median debt stands out as a genuine advantage. Most business programs saddle graduates with $26,000 nationally and $24,000 in Colorado, making DU's lower debt burden meaningful—especially given the 0.46 debt-to-earnings ratio means graduates owe less than half their first year's salary. The 29% earnings jump to $59,181 by year four suggests solid career progression, though even that four-year mark doesn't catch Regis University's starting salary.

For families weighing DU against Colorado alternatives, this program offers a reasonable path: graduates avoid the debt loads common elsewhere while earning more than most state peers. However, if your student is competitive for Regis (which produces similar admits), that program delivers significantly stronger early earnings. DU works best for students who value the school's broader Denver location advantages while getting a business credential that won't create crushing debt, even if it doesn't command premium starting salaries.