Business Administration, Management and Operations at University of Hawaii at Manoa

UH Manoa's business program starts slow but builds momentum—graduates earn about $40,000 initially, well below the national median of $45,700 and placing them in just the 24th percentile nationwide. However, by year four, earnings jump 33% to over $53,000, nearly matching the national 75th percentile. Within Hawaii's limited business program landscape, this represents middle-of-the-pack performance at the 60th percentile, trailing University of Phoenix-Hawaii and Hawaii Pacific University but ahead of other state schools.

The debt picture provides genuine relief here. At $18,218, graduates carry significantly less burden than the national median of $26,000—ranking in the 95th percentile (meaning only 5% of programs have lower debt). This creates a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46, meaning students could theoretically pay off their loans in about six months of gross income from that first year.

For Hawaii families, this program offers a pragmatic path: modest debt, respectable in-state standing, and strong earnings growth as graduates gain experience. The initial $40,000 salary may feel underwhelming compared to mainland opportunities, but the low debt load and eventual earning power make this a solid in-state investment—especially for students who plan to remain in Hawaii's smaller job market where local credentials and networks matter considerably.