Analysis
University of Georgia's finance program stands out as one of the strongest performers in the field, ranking in the 94th percentile nationally with first-year earnings of $67,444—significantly above the national median of $53,590. Within Georgia's finance landscape, UGA clearly leads the pack, outearning even Georgia State by over $11,000 annually and ranking in the 80th percentile statewide.
The financial picture looks particularly attractive when you consider the debt burden. At $20,299, graduates carry about $3,000 less debt than the national average and nearly $4,400 less than the typical Georgia finance graduate. This creates a debt-to-earnings ratio of just 0.30, meaning students can realistically pay off their loans in well under a year of post-graduation income. The 21% earnings growth from year one to year four also suggests strong career trajectory potential.
The only moderate concern is that debt levels sit in the 76th percentile nationally, though this is more than offset by the exceptional earning power. With UGA's competitive 37% admission rate and strong academic profile, this program represents excellent value for students who can gain admission—combining prestigious education with practical financial outcomes that clearly justify the investment.
Where University of Georgia Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Georgia 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 Georgia | $67,444 | $81,652 | +21% |
| Georgia State University | $56,344 | $65,600 | +16% |
| Kennesaw State University | $54,428 | $63,121 | +16% |
| University of North Georgia | $51,044 | $62,580 | +23% |
| Georgia Southern University | $50,753 | $61,615 | +21% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Georgia
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Georgia (16 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $11,180 | $67,444 | $81,652 | $20,299 | 0.30 | |
| $8,478 | $56,344 | $65,600 | $24,250 | 0.43 | |
| $5,786 | $54,428 | $63,121 | $25,000 | 0.46 | |
| $5,971 | $52,078 | $61,509 | $25,571 | 0.49 | |
| $5,009 | $51,044 | $62,580 | $16,650 | 0.33 | |
| $5,905 | $50,753 | $61,615 | $24,656 | 0.49 | |
| 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 Georgia, approximately 17% 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 428 graduates with reported earnings and 335 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.