Construction Management at University of Denver

A debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.37 puts this program in manageable territory—graduates from similar construction management bachelor's programs nationally could expect to handle their debt load within about four to five months of gross first-year income. The estimated $26,750 debt sits slightly above the national median for construction management programs ($24,750), while the $72,746 first-year earnings figure tracks right at the national benchmark. What's less clear is how University of Denver's premium tuition translates into competitive advantage: with a 71% admission rate and relatively accessible entry standards, the school's higher debt load compared to Colorado State University Pueblo ($24,750) doesn't appear offset by meaningfully stronger earnings prospects—at least based on what peer programs typically produce.

The state picture adds another wrinkle. Colorado's construction management programs generally show first-year earnings around $67,044, suggesting University of Denver graduates might need to look beyond local markets to justify their investment. Construction management has historically rewarded credentials with immediate earning power, but whether this specific program delivers on that promise remains uncertain given the limited graduate outcome data.

For parents, the practical question is whether University of Denver's construction industry connections and Denver metro location—where building activity has been robust—can close the gap between estimated and ideal outcomes. The fundamentals look workable, but you're betting on a program without verified track record data rather than choosing one with proven results.