Analysis
University of Florida's business program strikes an impressive balance between earnings potential and affordability that most parents will find compelling. With first-year earnings of $52,032—well above both the national ($45,703) and Florida ($45,072) medians—graduates enter the job market with a solid financial foundation. More importantly, they do so with just $16,811 in debt, which is dramatically lower than typical business students who graduate with $26,000 nationally and $22,625 in Florida.
This debt advantage translates into real financial flexibility early in graduates' careers. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.32 means students can realistically pay off their loans within a few years while building wealth, rather than being burdened by payments for a decade or more. The 23% earnings growth over four years shows career momentum, reaching $63,871 by year four—competitive with some of Florida's top-tier private institutions.
While UF ranks in the 60th percentile among Florida business programs for earnings, the combination of strong income potential and minimal debt creates exceptional value. The program performs in the 73rd percentile nationally, demonstrating that students can access above-average career outcomes without the premium debt load typical at this performance level. For families prioritizing both career prospects and financial prudence, this represents one of the stronger value propositions in Florida business education.
Where University of Florida Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Florida 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 Florida | $52,032 | $63,871 | +23% |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Worldwide | $66,999 | $77,767 | +16% |
| Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Daytona Beach | $66,999 | $77,767 | +16% |
| University of Miami | $48,793 | $72,328 | +48% |
| The University of Tampa | $46,543 | $71,458 | +54% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Florida
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Florida (93 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,381 | $52,032 | $63,871 | $16,811 | 0.32 | |
| $42,304 | $66,999 | $77,767 | $20,508 | 0.31 | |
| $11,665 | $66,999 | $77,767 | $20,508 | 0.31 | |
| $44,360 | $63,708 | $58,663 | $38,097 | 0.60 | |
| $12,240 | $63,708 | $58,663 | $38,097 | 0.60 | |
| $42,950 | $63,132 | $48,653 | $21,125 | 0.33 | |
| National Median | — | $45,703 | — | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business administration, management and operations graduates
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Architectural and Engineering Managers
Biofuels/Biodiesel Technology and Product Development Managers
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Natural Sciences Managers
Clinical Research Coordinators
Water Resource Specialists
Compensation and Benefits Managers
Human Resources Managers
Sales Managers
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 Florida, approximately 22% 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 425 graduates with reported earnings and 346 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.