Analysis
Kansas graduates in business earn slightly more than other in-state options while carrying less debt—a combination that matters when comparing schools within driving distance. At the 60th percentile among Kansas business programs, this isn't the state's highest-earning option (Kansas State edges ahead at $54,223), but the lower debt load of $24,480 versus the state median of $25,740 tilts the value equation favorably. Starting at $49,339 and climbing to over $60,000 by year four represents steady if unspectacular progression for a business degree.
The debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.50 translates to manageable repayment—roughly half a year's salary, which most financial advisors consider reasonable territory. Nationally, this program lands squarely in the middle pack at the 56th percentile, meaning it neither stands out nor disappoints compared to business programs across the country. The 88% admission rate and modest SAT averages suggest this is an accessible option rather than a hypercompetitive one.
For Kansas families, this represents a solid in-state choice that won't saddle graduates with outsized debt while still delivering earnings that match or exceed local expectations. It's not going to catapult anyone into the top tier of business earnings, but it provides a reliable foundation without the financial anxiety that comes with programs carrying $30,000+ in debt.
Where University of Kansas Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all business/commerce bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Kansas 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 Kansas | $49,339 | $60,067 | +22% |
| New York University | $77,828 | $115,546 | +48% |
| Wake Forest University | $76,722 | $91,708 | +20% |
| Northeastern University | $74,868 | $91,376 | +22% |
| Pittsburg State University | $46,738 | $50,671 | +8% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Kansas
Business/Commerce bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Kansas (9 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 University of KansasLawrence | $11,700 | $49,339 | $60,067 | $24,480 | 0.50 |
 Kansas State UniversityManhattan | $10,942 | $54,223 | — | $29,705 | 0.55 |
 Pittsburg State UniversityPittsburg | $8,008 | $46,738 | $50,671 | $23,015 | 0.49 |
 Bethel College-North NewtonNorth Newton | $34,002 | $34,879 | — | $27,000 | 0.77 |
| National Median | — | $47,506 | — | $26,000 | 0.55 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with business/commerce graduates
Sales Managers
Industrial Production Managers
Quality Control Systems Managers
Geothermal Production Managers
Biofuels Production Managers
Biomass Power Plant Managers
Hydroelectric Production Managers
Construction Managers
Administrative Services Managers
Facilities Managers
Security Managers
Chief Executives
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 Kansas, approximately 20% 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 100 graduates with reported earnings and 103 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.