Business Administration, Management and Operations at University of Idaho
Bachelor's Degree
Analysis
University of Idaho's business program significantly outperforms expectations for an accessible state university. With first-year graduates earning $59,334—nearly 30% above the national median and ahead of every other Idaho program—this represents exceptional value at an institution with a 79% admission rate. By year four, earnings climb to $73,004, maintaining the strong advantage over both state and national peers.
The debt picture reinforces this value proposition. At $23,000, graduates carry slightly less debt than the state median while earning substantially more. The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.39 means graduates owe less than five months of their first-year salary, creating financial flexibility that many business graduates don't enjoy. Even among Idaho's limited options, this program stands in the 80th percentile—a meaningful distinction when in-state tuition makes staying local attractive.
For families weighing cost against outcomes, this program delivers top-tier results without requiring top-tier credentials. While the moderate sample size suggests viewing these numbers with some caution, the consistent outperformance across both debt and earnings metrics makes a compelling case. Your graduate will likely out-earn peers from more selective business programs while carrying manageable debt.
Where University of Idaho Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally
Programs in the upper-left quadrant (high earnings, low debt) offer the best value. Programs in the lower-right quadrant warrant careful consideration.
Earnings Distribution
How University of Idaho graduates compare to all programs nationally
University of Idaho graduates earn $59k, placing them in the 95th percentile of all business administration, management and operations bachelors programs nationally.
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
Earnings trajectories vary significantly. Some programs show strong early returns that plateau; others start lower but accelerate. Consider where you want to be at year 4, not just year 1.
Compare to Similar Programs in Idaho
Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Idaho (7 total in state)
| School | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Idaho | $59,334 | $73,004 | $23,000 | 0.39 |
| Brigham Young University-Idaho | $53,635 | $63,813 | $12,749 | 0.24 |
| Boise State University | $48,776 | $52,621 | $22,215 | 0.46 |
| Northwest Nazarene University | $46,499 | $60,971 | $23,375 | 0.50 |
| Idaho State University | $44,178 | $60,464 | $25,500 | 0.58 |
| Lewis-Clark State College | $41,473 | $46,557 | $26,000 | 0.63 |
| National Median | $45,703 | — | $26,000 | 0.57 |
Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in Idaho
Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across Idaho schools
| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Debt |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brigham Young University-Idaho Rexburg | $4,656 | $53,635 | $12,749 |
| Boise State University Boise | $8,782 | $48,776 | $22,215 |
| Northwest Nazarene University Nampa | $39,370 | $46,499 | $23,375 |
| Idaho State University Pocatello | $8,356 | $44,178 | $25,500 |
| Lewis-Clark State College Lewiston | $7,388 | $41,473 | $26,000 |
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 Idaho, approximately 23% 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 56 graduates with reported earnings and 51 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.