Median Earnings (1yr)
$57,154
89th percentile (60th in CA)
Median Debt
$25,000
4% below national median
Debt-to-Earnings
0.44
Manageable
Sample Size
403
Adequate data

Analysis

University of La Verne's business program punches well above its weight nationally, landing in the 89th percentile for graduate earnings despite a modest 1116 average SAT score. Starting salaries of $57,154 significantly outpace both the national median ($45,703) and California median ($49,543) for business programs. With $25,000 in typical debt, graduates face a manageable debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.44—meaning they could theoretically pay off their loans in less than six months of gross earnings.

The California context tells a more nuanced story. While La Verne performs solidly at the 60th percentile within the state, it sits well below elite programs like UC Berkeley ($90,008) and USC ($71,668). However, this gap may reflect La Verne's accessibility—nearly half of students receive Pell grants, suggesting the program serves many first-generation college students who achieve strong financial outcomes. The 14% earnings growth over four years indicates graduates build valuable career momentum.

For families seeking reliable business career preparation without the cutthroat competition of top-tier schools, La Verne delivers solid value. The combination of above-average starting salaries, reasonable debt levels, and steady earnings growth makes this a practical choice for students who want strong job prospects without the stress and expense of more selective programs.

Where University of La Verne Stands

Earnings vs. debt across all business administration, management and operations bachelors's programs nationally

University of La VerneOther business administration, management and operations programs

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 La Verne graduates compare to all programs nationally

University of La Verne graduates earn $57k, placing them in the 89th 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 California

Business Administration, Management and Operations bachelors's programs at peer institutions in California (98 total in state)

SchoolEarnings (1yr)Earnings (4yr)Median DebtDebt/Earnings
University of La Verne$57,154$64,888$25,0000.44
University of California-Berkeley$90,008$123,780$12,1950.14
Golden Gate University$77,752$87,027$33,9680.44
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo$71,876$85,332$17,0000.24
University of Southern California$71,668$87,767$17,3750.24
Pepperdine University$69,751$82,688$28,0000.40
National Median$45,703—$26,0000.57

Other Business Administration, Management and Operations Programs in California

Compare tuition, earnings, and debt across California schools

SchoolIn-State TuitionEarnings (1yr)Debt
University of California-Berkeley
Berkeley
$14,850$90,008$12,195
Golden Gate University
San Francisco
$31,243$77,752$33,968
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo
$11,075$71,876$17,000
University of Southern California
Los Angeles
$68,237$71,668$17,375
Pepperdine University
Malibu
$66,742$69,751$28,000

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 La Verne, approximately 48% 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 403 graduates with reported earnings and 451 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.